Why is the hourly rate for childcare sometimes higher than the maximum hourly price?

"Why does my childcare provider charge more per hour than the maximum hourly price?"
And perhaps more importantly: is that actually allowed?

It's a question many parents who receive childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag) find themselves asking. It can be confusing to see that your childcare provider charges more per hour than the amount on which your benefit is calculated. In this blog, we explain step by step how this works, what the rules are, and what to look out for as a parent.

What is the maximum hourly price for childcare?

The maximum hourly price is an amount set each year by the Dutch government. It determines the upper limit on which you can receive childcare benefit. The Tax Authority (Belastingdienst) uses this figure to calculate what portion of your childcare costs you are entitled to receive benefit for.

The maximum hourly price applies to daycare centers (kinderdagverblijf/KDV), after-school care (BSO), and childminder/host parent care (gastouderopvang).

Importantly, it is not a mandatory rate that childcare providers are required to charge.

What is the difference between the hourly rate and the maximum hourly price?

The hourly rate and the maximum hourly price are two distinct things. The maximum hourly price is simply the upper limit on which the government will pay benefit.

The hourly rate is the price that a childcare provider sets itself. By law, childcare providers are completely free to set their own hourly rates. This difference often causes confusion, as parents sometimes assume that providers must stick to the maximum hourly price. That is not the case.

Is childcare allowed to cost more than the maximum hourly price?

Yes, it is. The government sets the maximum amount on which benefit can be paid, but there is no legal cap on what a childcare provider may charge per hour.

Providers are required to be transparent about their rates and to clearly inform parents of the costs upfront. A higher hourly rate is therefore permitted, as long as it is communicated clearly.

What happens when the hourly rate is higher than the maximum hourly price?

If the hourly rate is equal to or lower than the maximum hourly price, you receive benefit on the full hourly rate. If the hourly rate is higher than the maximum hourly price, you receive benefit up to the maximum — and pay the difference yourself.

Why do childcare providers charge a higher hourly rate?

A higher hourly rate doesn't automatically mean a provider is overpriced. In practice, it often reflects what's included in the care on offer.

For example:

• Higher staffing costs, for instance due to additional investment in training and professional development of childcare workers
• Smaller groups or extra supervision (which means higher staffing costs)
• Extended opening hours: you pay for the hours the facility is open
• Extra activities, such as sports, music, or workshops
• Better or more extensive facilities
• Meals, outings, or materials included in the rate: some providers charge for these separately on top of their hourly rate

Rising costs due to inflation, housing, and stricter quality requirements also play a role. Many childcare providers raise their rates in order to maintain quality and financial sustainability.

What should parents look out for when comparing rates?

Don't just look at the hourly price — focus on what you get for it. Compare things like:

• What is included in the rate?
• Are there additional costs for activities or meals?
• Opening hours and flexibility
• Pedagogical approach and supervision
• Facilities and activities on offer
• Inspection reports: what does the quality look like?

This gives you a much more realistic picture of the value for money.

What about the maximum hourly price and childcare rates in 2026?

The government sets new amounts every year, and childcare providers frequently update their rates as well. In 2026, many rates have risen compared to 2025 — but the maximum hourly prices have also increased. This means many parents are entitled to a higher benefit.

Want to know what this means for your situation and how to calculate it? We walk you through it step by step in our blog on childcare benefit in 2026.

An hourly rate above the maximum hourly price is perfectly legal and very common in practice. It doesn't automatically mean a provider is too expensive — but it does mean it's worth taking a closer look at what's being offered.

On Kiddie.nl, you can see not just what childcare costs, but why. Easily compare providers on hourly rates, facilities, opening hours, inspection reports, and reviews from other parents. That way, you know exactly what you're paying for — and can make a well-informed choice that suits your family and your budget.