A2 KNM: Social Security System
The Netherlands has an extensive social security system that provides a safety net for residents. This includes: healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag), housi...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
The Netherlands has an extensive social security system that provides a safety net for residents. This includes: healthcare allowance (zorgtoeslag), housing benefit (huurtoeslag), child benefit (kinderbijslag), and child-related budget (kindgebonden budget). These 'toeslagen' help with costs of living.
| Dutch | English | Who Qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Zorgtoeslag | Healthcare allowance | Low/middle income, pays for insurance |
| Huurtoeslag | Housing benefit | Renters with low income |
| Kinderbijslag | Child benefit | All parents with children under 18 |
| Kindgebonden budget | Child-related budget | Low/middle income with children |
| AOW | State pension | Everyone from retirement age |
| Studiefinanciering | Student finance | Students in higher education |
Examples
- Krijg je zorgtoeslag?
- Do you receive healthcare allowance?
- Je kunt toeslagen aanvragen bij de Belastingdienst.
- You can apply for benefits at the Tax Office.
- Kinderbijslag is voor alle ouders.
- Child benefit is for all parents.
- De AOW begint bij de pensioenleeftijd.
- The state pension starts at retirement age.
Study note
Apply for toeslagen through the Belastingdienst (Tax Office) website or with DigiD. Be careful: if your income changes, report it immediately! Getting too much toeslag means you'll have to pay it back. The Tax Office sends a 'jaaropgave' each year to check your toeslag amounts.
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
