Child benefit

Child benefit is money from the government for parents who are bringing up children in the Netherlands. 

What is child benefit? 

Child benefit is money you get from the government if you have a child. This money helps with the costs of food, clothing, school and sports. 

Right to child benefit 

You get child benefit if: 

• your child is aged under 18. 
• you live or work in the Netherlands; 
• your child lives with you, or you share caring for your child. 

The SVB pays child benefit. You do not have to claim it and you do not have to pay tax on it. 

How do you get child benefit, and when do you get it? 

When you have your first child, the SVB sends you a letter automatically. This usually happens two to four weeks after the birth. That letter tells you how to claim child benefit via Mijn SVB. You log in using your DigiD. 

If you already get child benefit for another child, SVB usually makes arrangements automatically. You will automatically receive child benefit for your new child as well. 

You receive child benefit four times a year: in January, April, July and October. It is always paid at the start of the month. 

How much child benefit do you get? 

The amount depends on your child's age. There are three age groups: 

• 0-5 years: lowest amount. 
• 6-11 years: slightly higher amount. 
• 12-17 years: highest amount. 

You automatically receive more child benefit when your child turns 6 or 12. You do not need to report this. 

If you work in the Netherlands but live in another country, you might be able to get child benefit. Information can be found on the SVB's website.