Childcare allowance helps parents in Utrecht with the costs of childcare. Working or studying parents can apply for this financial support for care at a recognised institution.
What is childcare allowance?
Childcare allowance is a contribution from the Tax Authorities to ease the costs of childcare. You qualify for allowance for:
- Daycare (for children aged 0 to 4 years)
- After-school care (BSO, for children aged 4 to 12 years)
- Registered childminder care via a registered agency
Conditions for childcare allowance
- Both parents work, study or follow a reintegration programme
- Your child is registered with a recognised childcare provider in the LRK register
- Your child is registered at your residential address in Utrecht
- There is an official agreement with the childcare institution
- You contribute to the childcare costs yourself
How many care hours count?
The number of hours for which you receive allowance is determined by the parent with the fewest working hours:
| Working hours per week | Maximum number of care hours per month |
|---|---|
| Less than 26.7 hours | 140 hours |
| 26.7 to 35.3 hours | 188 hours |
| 35.3 hours or more | 230 hours |
Amount of childcare allowance
The amount of the allowance depends on your combined income in Utrecht. The lower the income, the greater the government's contribution:
- Lower incomes: up to 96% of the costs are reimbursed
- Middle incomes: between 60% and 80% reimbursement
- Higher incomes: at least 33.3% for the first child
There is a maximum hourly rate set for the calculation of the allowance.
Frequently asked questions about childcare allowance in Utrecht
Do I get allowance for a babysitter at home?
Yes, but only if the babysitter is an official registered childminder and is listed in the National Childcare Register (LRK).
Do I qualify for allowance as a self-employed person?
Yes, as a self-employed entrepreneur in Utrecht you can also apply for allowance, provided you can demonstrate that you work and generate income.
What happens to allowance during school holidays?
The allowance continues, even during holidays or if your child is ill. You must report it only if there is long-term reduced care.
Practical information and help in Utrecht
For legal questions or assistance with applying for childcare allowance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55. In addition, the District Court Midden-Nederland (Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1) handles matters regarding allowances and disputes with the Tax Authorities.
Applying for childcare allowance
You can apply for childcare allowance via the Tax Authorities website. Use your DigiD to log in and fill out the form. Make sure you have your BSN, your child's BSN and possibly your partner's BSN at hand, along with the childcare institution's details (such as the LRK number). After approval, you will receive a monthly advance. Submit your application within three months after the start of the care to get full retroactive effect.
Maximum hourly rate for allowance
The government reimburses costs up to a certain hourly rate. For 2024: €9.12 for daycare, €7.76 for BSO and €6.90 for childminder care. If the costs are higher, you pay the difference yourself. Check the current rates on the Tax Authorities website, as they may change annually.