Tax Return Tips: How to Get More Money Back

Money back from the Belastingdienst: are you missing any deductions?

Many people in the Netherlands get back less than they are entitled to, simply because they forget deductions. On average, they miss out on €200-500 a year.

The most important deductions on your tax return

1. Deduct healthcare costs

Specific healthcare costs above the threshold are deductible:

• Personal contributions towards medicines

• Travel costs to hospital (€0,21 per km)

• Dietary costs (with a doctor's statement)

• Extra clothing and bedding for chronic illness

• Aids such as glasses or hearing aids

2. Deduct mortgage interest

The interest on your mortgage is deductible. This is the largest deduction for homeowners. Want to know how much you could borrow on a mortgage? Use our mortgage checker.

3. Deduct donations

• Ordinary donations: Above 1% and below 10% of your aggregate income

• Periodic donations: Fully deductible if you commit to at least 5 years through a civil-law notary

4. Deduct study costs

Costs of education aimed at your current or future profession are deductible. These include tuition fees, books and travel costs.

5. Deduct maintenance payments

Maintenance paid to your former partner is deductible. Child maintenance is not.

Do not forget to check your benefits

Check whether you are entitled to:

• Healthcare benefit: With an income of up to ~€38.000 (single)

• Housing benefit: With low rent and a low income

• Child-related budget: For children up to 18 years old

• Childcare benefit: When using childcare

Common mistakes when filing a tax return

Mistake 1: Filing too late

You can still file a return or lodge an objection going back up to 5 years. Missed deductions in previous years? File a return now!

Mistake 2: Not allocating deductions optimally between partners

Allocate deductions optimally between partners. The partner with the highest income benefits most from deductions.

Mistake 3: Forgetting bank accounts

All accounts must be declared in box 3. This includes foreign accounts.

Mistake 4: Forgetting crypto

Yes, crypto must be declared in box 3. Its value on 1 January counts.

How much can you get back from the Belastingdienst?

On average, people in the Netherlands get €200-500 back. With the right deductions, this can rise to €1.000+. Use this money wisely — for example, by building an emergency fund or starting to invest.

Tips for a successful tax return

Keep receipts throughout the year: Healthcare costs, donations, study costs

Use the pre-filled tax return: Check that everything is correct

File as early as possible: The earlier you file, the sooner you get your refund

Unsure? Consult a tax adviser: Costs €50-150, often saves you more

Conclusion

Take your time with your tax return and review all deductions. It takes about an hour but could save you hundreds of euros. Money you can put straight into savings or investments.

Discover more money tips or use our loan calculator to work through your financial options.