What is Child Benefit?
Child benefit is financial support from the government for the costs of raising children. Parents receive this contribution until their child reaches the age of 18. The amount varies depending on the child's age.
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 under 18 years old
- The child resides in the Netherlands or a treaty country
- You are responsible for the care and upbringing of the child
- You are insured under the General Child Benefit Act (AKW)
How to Apply for Child Benefit?
Automatic Entitlement upon Birth
For a birth in the Netherlands, you often don't need to do anything:
- Report the birth to the municipality
- The SVB receives notification of this
- Child benefit is automatically granted
For adoption, foster care or a child from 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
After a divorce:
- The child benefit is paid to the parent who cares for the child
- In shared custody, the amount can be divided
- Changes must be reported to the SVB
Applying for Double Child Benefit
If your child requires intensive care, you may be entitled to double child benefit:
- The child receives intensive care at home
- The child does not live in a care institution
- The application is handled via the SVB
Do I get child benefit for a stepchild?
Yes, provided you raise and support the child as if it were your own child.
Is child benefit counted as 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 18th birthday, even if your child works.
Frequently Asked Questions about Child Benefit in Westland
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 Social Insurance Bank (SVB). This can be done via a form on the SVB website. Attach a valid birth certificate, possibly legalized and translated, plus proof of residence in the Netherlands or a treaty country. The SVB will assess your entitlement to child benefit and, if approved, grant it retroactively from the date of birth.
What to do if I don't receive child benefit after a divorce?
In case of divorce, the custodial parent receives the child benefit. In shared custody, you can request a division. Report changes in your situation immediately to the SVB via Mijn SVB or by phone, so that the payment is adjusted correctly. This prevents later issues or recoveries.
Do I get child benefit if my child moves out for study?
Yes, child benefit continues until your child turns 18, even if they live independently for study. The benefit stops after the 18th birthday, provided the child resides in the Netherlands or a treaty country and is supported by you. From age 18, student financing may be an option.
How does the application for double child benefit work?
Double child benefit is possible if your child requires intensive care at home and does not reside in an institution. Submit an application to the SVB, supported by a statement from a doctor or care provider. The SVB will assess whether you qualify.
Contact and Assistance in Westland
For questions about child benefit or help with applications, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland. In case of disputes or complex matters, the District Court of The Hague (district) may be involved.