Zorgtoeslag 2026: how to apply for Dutch healthcare allowance
Zorgtoeslag is a monthly Dutch government allowance to help cover health insurance costs. In 2026, the maximum is €123 per month for singles and €239 per month for couples. If you live in the Netherlands, have Dutch health insurance (basisverzekering) and earn below approximately €38,000 per year (single), you likely qualify. You apply through toeslagen.nl using DigiD or via a machtiging (power of attorney).
Step-by-step process
Check eligibility
You must be 18 or older, live in the Netherlands, have Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering) and earn below approximately €38,000/year (single) or €48,000/year (couple). Non-EU citizens need a valid residence permit.
Gather your documents
You need your BSN, Dutch IBAN bank account, health insurance policy number (polisnummer), health insurer name and estimated annual income. Tip: a photo of your health insurance card contains both the insurer name and policy number.
Apply at toeslagen.nl
Log in to toeslagen.nl with your DigiD and click 'Zorgtoeslag aanvragen'. Fill in your BSN, insurer, policy number, IBAN and estimated income. Set the start date to the earliest eligible date — you can backdate up to 3 months.
Wait for the decision
Belastingdienst processes your application in 4-8 weeks. The first payment arrives on the 1st of the month after approval, directly to your Dutch bank account.
Check for retroactive eligibility
If you have been in the Netherlands with Dutch health insurance for more than 3 months, you can backdate your application. For prior years, you can file corrections up to 5 years back — this can mean over €1,000 extra.
Who is this guide for?
- Expats with Dutch health insurance who want to check if they may receive healthcare allowance.
- Workers, students and new residents trying to understand the 2026 income limits.
- Couples or partners who need to understand how household income affects eligibility.
- People who had Dutch insurance in a previous year and may still be able to apply retroactively.
- Anyone confused by toeslagen.nl, DigiD, IBAN, income estimates or required updates.
What you will learn
- What zorgtoeslag is and why it can reduce Dutch health insurance costs.
- Which income and partner factors usually matter for eligibility.
- What information and documents you should prepare before applying.
- How retroactive applications and payment timing generally work.
- When Benefitly can help you apply or check the route through authorization.
Mistakes this guide helps you avoid
Do it yourself
Use the guide to understand the process
Best if you want to learn the Dutch admin steps, prepare your own documents and avoid common mistakes before you act.
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Frequently asked questions
How much is zorgtoeslag in 2026?
Maximum €123 per month for singles and €239 per month for couples. The exact amount depends on your income — lower income means higher zorgtoeslag.
What is the income limit for zorgtoeslag?
For 2026, approximately €38,000 gross annual income for singles and €48,000 for couples. Check the exact thresholds at belastingdienst.nl.
Can I apply for zorgtoeslag without DigiD?
Not directly. However, Benefitly can apply on your behalf using a machtiging (power of attorney). You authorize us through machtigen.digid.nl and we handle the rest.
How far back can I claim zorgtoeslag?
New applications can be backdated up to 3 months. Corrections for prior years can go back up to 5 years.
Do I need a Dutch bank account?
Yes. Zorgtoeslag payments are only made to a Dutch IBAN. If you do not have one yet, open an account at bunq, ING, ABN AMRO or Rabobank.
Can Benefitly apply for zorgtoeslag for me?
Yes. For €79 we handle the full zorgtoeslag application: document collection, machtiging setup, submission and monitoring until approval. Most clients recover the fee within the first month of payments.