Cabinet is taking a new step to almost free childcare for working parents | News item

News item | 25-04-2025 | 19:30

In 2026, the government will invest € 199 million in a higher surcharge for working parents. This year a first step has already been taken, for which € 455 million has been reserved. With the resources, the group of working parents with a joint income up to around € 55,000 will be entitled to the maximum reimbursement percentage of 96%next year. Higher incomes also receive a higher reimbursement percentage.

In 2027, the reimbursement will increase further, making childcare almost free for middle incomes with a joint income up to almost twice average. In 2029, when the new system starts, the reimbursement will become income independent. All working parents are then entitled to the maximum reimbursement percentage of 96%.

Increase maximum hour prices

With the draft decision, the government also indexes the maximum hourly prices and assessment income in 2026. The government program agreed not to adjust the maximum hour prices once in the price level. In the Spring Memorandum, however, the cabinet decided to do this. As a result, the childcare allowance continues to be in line with the costs that parents make for childcare. That makes it more attractive for parents to work (more).

The maximum hour prices will increase by 4.84% in 2026. The new amounts for next year are € 11.23 in daycare, € 9.98 in out -of -school care and € 8.49 in the childminder daycare. The assessment income is indexed by 4.04%. For example, the childcare allowance moves with the average price level in the economy and childcare remains accessible and affordable for working parents.

Internet consultation
Do you want to respond to the draft decision? This is possible up to and including 5 May via: https://www.internetconsultatie.nl/wrijfingsbesluitkinderkinderopvangslagivmentarevingroeipad2026