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Privacy, scams, consumer rights and practical explainers. 4 guides.
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Zorgtoeslag and huurtoeslag for expats (2026): who qualifies and how much you getExpats with a valid residence status can get zorgtoeslag (health care allowance) and huurtoeslag (rent allowance) like anyone else. In 2026 zorgtoeslag goes up to about €129 a month for a single person, with an income limit of €40,857. Conditions, 2026 amounts, what's new in huurtoeslag and how the 30% ruling affects your income.6 min lezen
Paying bills in the Netherlands: iDEAL, Wero, direct debit and paying lateMost Dutch bills are paid by direct debit (automatische incasso) and online purchases by iDEAL, which is being renamed iDEAL | Wero in 2026 and fully replaced by Wero by the end of 2027. You can reverse a direct debit within 8 weeks without a reason, but you still owe the money. If you pay late, a company must send a 14-day letter before charging collection costs, which are at least €40 and at most 15 percent over the first €2,500.7 min lezen
Scams targeting expats in the Netherlands: fake texts, bank calls and rental fraudThe most common scams in the Netherlands are phishing texts and emails posing as the tax office, banks, parcel services or your provider, fake bank helpdesk calls asking you to move money to a 'safe account', WhatsApp 'new number' requests from a family member, and rental fraud. Your bank and the Tax Administration never ask for codes or payment via a link. Where to report: your bank, Fraudehelpdesk (088-7867372) and the police (0900-8844).8 min lezen
Moving to the Netherlands: checklist for internet, phone, energy and insuranceThe order that works: register with the municipality within 5 days (BSN), open a bank account, take out health insurance within 4 months, then arrange internet, a SIM-only plan and energy. Checklist with deadlines, what each step needs and what depends on what.7 min lezen