Applying for, calculating, optimizing, and receiving the childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag) can be a very complicated package to unpack, especially under the current system (2026). We're here to help you through the process with this checklist.
Eligibility for benefit
Before you get started, it's good to know whether you qualify. You are entitled to childcare benefit if you meet all of the following conditions.
- Your child is between 0 and 4 years old, or attends primary school
- You and your partner work, study, or are looking for work
- You receive child benefit or a foster care contribution for your child
- You and your partner have Dutch nationality or a valid residence permit
- At least one parent lives at the same address as the child
Read more about the conditions here.
Childcare location
Not every childcare provider qualifies for benefit. The location must be registered in the National Childcare Register (Landelijk Register Kinderopvang/LRK), and this also applies to childminders/host parents (gastouderopvang). Also pay attention to the hourly rate: if you pay more than the maximum hourly price, you must cover the difference entirely yourself without any benefit.
- The location is registered in the LRK
- The hourly rate is at or below the maximum hourly price (daycare €11.23 / after-school care (BSO) €9.98 / childminder/host parent €8.49)
- The opening hours suit your situation well
Read more about saving on costs here.
Calculation
The amount of your benefit depends on your income, the hourly rate, the opening hours, and the type of childcare. The higher your income, the less you receive in benefit. Use the government's calculation tool for an estimate, so you know what to expect in advance. When entering your assessable income, it's better to round up slightly, because underestimating means having to repay later.
- Estimate made using the calculation tool on toeslagen.nl
- Assessable income determined and rounded up slightly if necessary
Read more about the calculation here and here why you shouldn't be scared of the costs
Gathering information
For the application, you will need the following information:
- DigiD
- Personal details of yourself, your child, and any partner
- Childcare contract (number of hours, hourly rate, type of care)
- LRK number of the childcare location
- WOZ value (property value)
- Assessable income
Application
Go to toeslagen.nl and log in with your DigiD. Submit your application within 3 months of the childcare start date. Note: the benefit always takes effect on the 1st of the month in which you apply, not retroactively to the exact start date. If you apply too late, you may miss out on part of the benefit.
- Applied via toeslagen.nl
- Applied within 3 months of the childcare start date
Read more about the application process here.
Changes
Always report changes to the Dienst Toeslagen (Benefits Office) immediately. Think of a new income, moving house, changes in your family situation, or adjustments to your childcare contract. Incorrect information can lead to a repayment claim later.
- Report changes in income, address, family situation, or childcare contract immediately
Payment
The benefit is deposited around the 20th of each month, for the following month. If nothing has appeared in your account after that date, there is probably a change being processed, which means the calculation is being redone. This may take some time.
- Expect benefit payment around the 20th of the month, for the following month
Read more about how the payment works here.
Getting started
Start gathering your documents before you open the application. Check the LRK number, request the contract with the exact number of hours, and make sure your DigiD works. A complete application prevents delays and stress. Want to know which childcare locations near you are registered and how other parents rate their experiences? Compare on kiddie.nl based on Municipal Health Service (GGD) inspection reports and reviews from other parents.
