Childcare allowance helps parents in Leiden with the costs of childcare. Working or studying parents can apply for this allowance for care at a recognised institution.
What is childcare allowance?
Childcare allowance is a financial contribution from the Tax Authorities for the costs of childcare. In Leiden, you can receive this allowance for:
- Day care (0-4 years)
- After-school care (BSO, 4-12 years)
- Registered childminder care
Conditions for childcare allowance
- Both parents work, study or follow a reintegration trajectory
- Your child attends a registered childcare institution (registered in the LRK register)
- Your child is registered at your address and lives with you
- You have an official agreement with the childcare provider
- You pay the childcare costs yourself
How many care hours are covered?
The number of hours for which you receive allowance in Leiden is determined by the parent with the fewest working hours:
| Worked 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 the childcare allowance
The amount of the allowance in Leiden depends on your total income. The lower your income, the greater the portion covered by the government:
- Low incomes: up to 96% of the costs covered
- Middle incomes: approximately 60-80% reimbursement
- Higher incomes: at least 33.3% for the first child
There is a maximum hourly rate established for the calculation of the allowance.
Frequently asked questions about childcare allowance in Leiden
Can I get allowance for a babysitter at home?
Yes, but only if the babysitter is a registered childminder and is registered in the National Childcare Register (LRK).
Can I apply for allowance as a self-employed person?
Yes, as a self-employed entrepreneur in Leiden you can also get childcare allowance, provided you can demonstrate that you work and generate income.
What happens to my allowance during holidays?
You continue to receive the allowance, also during holidays or if your child is ill. You only need to report it if there is a permanent reduction in care hours.
Practical information and assistance in Leiden
For legal questions about childcare allowance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location handles cases regarding allowances and disputes with the Tax Authorities.
How do I apply for childcare allowance?
In Leiden, you can apply for childcare allowance via the Tax Authorities website. Log in with your DigiD and fill in the required details, such as your BSN, that of your child and your partner, and the LRK number of the childcare provider. 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.
What is the maximum hourly rate for allowance?
The government reimburses costs up to a fixed maximum hourly rate. For 2024, this is €9.12 for day care, €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.