What is Child Benefit?
Child benefit is a financial contribution from the government to ease the costs of raising children. Parents receive this allowance until their child reaches the age of 18. The amount depends on the age of the child.
Child Benefit Amounts 2024
| Child's Age | Per Quarter | Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 5 years | ±€279 | ±€1.116 |
| 6 to 11 years | ±€339 | ±€1.356 |
| 12 to 17 years | ±€399 | ±€1.596 |
Conditions for Child Benefit
- The child is younger than 18 years
- The child resides in the Netherlands or a treaty country
- You are responsible for the care and maintenance of the child
- You are insured under the General Child Benefit Act (AKW)
How to Apply for Child Benefit?
Automatic Award upon Birth
For a birth in the Netherlands, you often do not need to take any action:
- Report the birth to the municipality
- The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) receives a notification
- Child benefit is automatically awarded
For adoption, foster care or a child born abroad, you must submit an application yourself.
Payment Dates
- Payment takes place quarterly in arrears
- Around the beginning of January, April, July and October
- The amount is deposited into the account of the custodial parent
Child Benefit in Case of Divorce in Leiden
After a divorce:
- The child benefit is paid to the parent who primarily cares for the child
- In shared custody, the benefit can be divided
- Changes must be reported to the SVB
Applying for Double Child Benefit
If your child requires extra care, you may be eligible for double child benefit:
- The child receives intensive care at home
- The child does not reside in an institution
- You must submit an application for this to the SVB
Do I get child benefit for a stepchild?
Yes, provided you care for and maintain the stepchild as if it were your own child.
Is child benefit considered income?
No, child benefit is tax-free and does not affect benefits or allowances.
What if my child gets a job?
Child benefit continues until the child turns 18, regardless of whether the child works.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Benefit
How do I apply for child benefit for a child born abroad?
If your child was born outside the Netherlands, you must submit an application yourself to the SVB. This can be done via the online form on the SVB website. Attach a legalized and translated birth certificate, along with proof of residence in the Netherlands or a treaty country. Upon approval, you may receive the benefit retroactively.
What to do if I do not receive child benefit after a divorce?
In case of divorce, child benefit goes to the parent with whom the child lives. In shared custody, a division can be requested. Report changes immediately to the SVB via Mijn SVB or by telephone to avoid issues.
Do I get child benefit if my child moves out for studies?
Yes, child benefit continues until your child's 18th birthday, even if living independently. The child must reside in the Netherlands or a treaty country and be maintained by you.
How does the application for double child benefit work?
Double child benefit is possible if your child has an intensive care need at home. Submit an application to the SVB with a medical certificate. The SVB will assess your eligibility.
Legal Assistance in Leiden
For questions or disputes regarding child benefit, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. Additionally, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles cases regarding child benefit and family matters.