Childcare allowance helps parents in Zoetermeer with the costs of childcare. If you work or study, you can apply for this allowance for care at a registered institution.
What is childcare allowance?
Childcare allowance is financial support from the Tax Authorities for the costs of childcare. You qualify for allowance for:
- Daycare (for children from 0 to 4 years)
- After-school care (BSO, for children from 4 to 12 years)
- Registered childminder care via a registered agency
Conditions for childcare allowance
- Both parents must work, follow education or participate in a reintegration programme
- Your child must attend care that is registered in the National Childcare Register (LRK)
- Your child is registered at your address and lives with you
- You have a written agreement with the care provider
- You pay the care costs yourself
How many care hours are eligible?
The number of hours for which you receive allowance is determined by the parent with the fewest working hours:
| Working hours per week | Maximum care hours per month |
|---|---|
| Less than 26.7 hours | 140 hours |
| Between 26.7 and 35.3 hours | 188 hours |
| 35.3 hours or more | 230 hours |
How much allowance do you receive?
The amount of childcare allowance depends on your total income. The lower your income, the more the government contributes:
- Low incomes: up to 96% of the costs covered
- Middle incomes: between 60% and 80% reimbursement
- Higher incomes: at least 33.3% for the first child
Note: there is a maximum hourly rate set for the calculation of the allowance.
Frequently asked questions about childcare allowance in Zoetermeer
Can I apply for allowance for a babysitter at home?
Yes, but only if the babysitter is a registered childminder and is listed in the National Childcare Register (LRK).
Do I get allowance as a self-employed person (zzp’er)?
Yes, as a self-employed person in Zoetermeer you can also receive allowance, provided you can demonstrate that you work and have income.
Does the allowance continue during holidays?
Yes, the allowance continues during holidays or if your child is ill. You must report it only if there is long-term reduced care.
Practical questions and answers
How can I apply for childcare allowance?
Go to the Tax Authorities website and log in with your DigiD. Fill in the form with your BSN, that of your child and possibly your partner, plus the details of the care provider (such as the LRK number). After approval, you will receive a monthly advance. Apply for the allowance within three months after the start of the care to avoid losing rights.
What is the maximum hourly rate for allowance in 2024?
The government reimburses up to a fixed rate: €9.12 for daycare, €7.76 for after-school care and €6.90 for childminder care. Higher costs you pay yourself. Check the current rates annually via the Tax Authorities.
Can I get allowance with unemployment benefits or social assistance?
Yes, in Zoetermeer you can also receive allowance if you have unemployment benefits or social assistance, provided you follow a reintegration trajectory or are job hunting. Your income determines the amount of the reimbursement, often up to 96%.
What if my situation changes?
Changes in income, work or family situation must be reported within four weeks via 'My Allowances' to prevent issues such as recovery. Think of a new job, dismissal or changed care hours.
How does the Tax Authorities calculate my allowance?
The calculation depends on your joint income, the care hours and the maximum hourly rate. A lower income means a higher reimbursement. Make an estimate with the calculator on the Tax Authorities website.
Does the allowance also apply to care on public holidays or at night?
Yes, allowance is possible for care on public holidays, in the evening or at night, if the care is registered. Extra costs above the maximum rate you pay yourself.
Need help in Zoetermeer?
For legal questions about childcare allowance, you can contact the Legal Counter Zoetermeer. In case of disputes, this falls under the District Court of The Hague (district).