The deductible is the amount you must pay yourself before your health insurance covers costs. For 2024, the mandatory deductible has been set at €385 per year.
What does the deductible entail?
The deductible is the portion of healthcare costs that you pay yourself before the insurance pays out. This applies exclusively to care covered by the basic insurance.
Mandatory and voluntary deductible
| Type | Amount 2024 | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory deductible | €385 | Applies to everyone aged 18 and older |
| Voluntary deductible | €0 - €500 extra | Option for a lower premium |
| Maximum deductible | €885 | Mandatory (€385) + voluntary (€500) |
Which care is exempt from the deductible?
You do not have to pay a deductible for the following care:
- Visits and consultations with the general practitioner
- General practitioner care outside office hours (evening, night, weekend)
- Care surrounding childbirth and maternity care
- Check-ups after organ donation
- Influenza vaccination for risk groups
Deductible for minors
No deductible applies to children under 18 years of age. They are covered free of charge on a parent's policy.
Option for a higher voluntary deductible
You can choose to increase your deductible in increments of €100 up to €500. This results in a lower monthly premium, which can be attractive if you need little care.
Frequently asked questions about the deductible in Zoetermeer
Do I have to pay the deductible again every year?
Yes, the deductible is reset every calendar year. On January 1, you start again with €0 in used costs.
Does a general practitioner visit fall under the deductible?
No, general practitioner care is exempt from the deductible. However, follow-up treatments via a specialist do fall under this deductible.
Can I pay my deductible in installments?
Yes, many insurers in Zoetermeer offer the option to settle the deductible in monthly installments.
Legal support in Zoetermeer
Do you have questions or disputes about your health insurance or deductible? Contact the Zoetermeer Legal Advice Office for free advice. For complex matters, you can go to the District Court of The Hague, which serves the Zoetermeer district.
Practical questions about the deductible
What if I cannot pay my deductible immediately?
In 2024 (€385), the insurer often pays the costs directly, even if you have not yet met the deductible. You pay this back later, for example in installments. Contact your insurer for the options.
Can I change my voluntary deductible annually?
Yes, you can review the voluntary deductible (€0–€500) each year when concluding or adjusting your policy. A higher deductible means lower premiums, but can be costly with high healthcare usage.