Double Child Benefit: Eligibility and Application in Rotterdam
Double child benefit provides Rotterdam parents with additional financial support for children with intensive care needs, such as chronic illnesses or disabilities. This allowance covers extra costs for care, therapies, and home adaptations. In this article, we discuss the eligibility criteria, legal framework, and application steps, along with tips for local support through the Rotterdam Legal Helpdesk, ensuring residents maximize their rights.
What is Double Child Benefit?
Double child benefit, or child benefit with care allowance, doubles the standard child benefit for Rotterdam families with children requiring extensive care. While standard child benefit depends on the child’s age, this enhanced payment accounts for additional needs like assistive devices or professional support. The benefit is administered by the Social Insurance Agency (SVB), but it is not automatic—Rotterdam parents must meet specific criteria and submit an application. For personalized advice on your regional situation, contact the Rotterdam Legal Helpdesk.
Legal Framework
The rules for double child benefit are outlined in the Child Benefit Act (KBW), particularly Article 3, Section 2, which permits a doubled payment for children with conditions requiring intensive care. This aligns with social security principles under the Constitution (Article 20) and the Participation Act. The SVB follows the Policy Rules for Child Benefit with Intensive Care to define ‘intensive care.’ In 2023, stricter criteria were introduced to ensure fair distribution. For general information on child benefit, see our article on standard child benefit. In Rotterdam, residents can inquire with the Municipality of Rotterdam about local schemes.
Eligibility for Double Child Benefit
Rotterdam families must meet strict conditions to qualify for double child benefit: the child must have a long-term intensive care need due to a medical condition. Key requirements include:
- Age and residency: Under 18 years old and legally residing in the Netherlands, with exceptions for students up to 20 years if care needs persist. Rotterdam residents must also comply with address changes via the Municipality.
- Medical justification: A doctor or specialist must confirm the need for above-average care, such as daily treatments, tube feeding, or constant supervision.
- Duration of care needs: The condition must last at least 6 months and be ongoing.
- Income threshold: None—accessible to all Rotterdam households.
- No overlap with other benefits: Compatible with care allowance but not with childcare benefit.
What Qualifies as Intensive Care?
Intensive care includes medically necessary interventions beyond standard parenting. Examples in Rotterdam include:
- Children with severe physical disabilities, such as muscular dystrophy, attending local therapy centers.
- Children with mental health disorders requiring 24/7 supervision, aligned with Rotterdam’s mental health services (GGZ).
- Children dependent on medical equipment, such as ventilators.
Practical Examples
Consider a Rotterdam parent with a child diagnosed with cystic fibrosis: daily physiotherapy, medication, and a special diet are mandatory. A specialist at the Erasmus MC confirms the intensity. With a medical certificate, the application to the SVB may yield €500 per quarter instead of €250 for a 10-year-old. Or a child with autism exhibiting aggression, requiring constant supervision—a Rotterdam psychiatrist validates this for the allowance. However, if only speech therapy is needed without intensive elements, the claim may be rejected. The SVB evaluates each case based on facts, relevant across Rotterdam’s districts.
Rights and Obligations of Applicants
Rotterdam applicants are entitled to a decision within 8 weeks, with clear reasoning. In case of rejection, they can file an objection with the SVB and appeal to the Rotterdam District Court. Obligations include:
- Submitting accurate medical documentation.
- Reporting changes, such as improved care needs.
- Repaying incorrectly received amounts.
Comparison: Standard vs. Double Child Benefit
| Aspect | Standard Child Benefit | Double Child Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Amount | Standard rate (e.g., €250/quarter) | Doubled (e.g., €500/quarter) |
| Eligibility | Child under 18 | Plus intensive care needs |
| Application | Automatic via DUO/SVB | Active application with medical proof |
| Duration | Until age 18 | Until care needs end or age 18 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply if my child is over 18?
A: Only if your child is a student under 20 and still requires intensive care.
Q: What if my child’s condition improves?
A: Notify the SVB immediately to avoid overpayment.
Q: Can I combine this with other benefits?
A: Yes, but not with childcare benefit. The SVB assesses overlaps.
Q: How long does approval take?
A: Typically 8 weeks, with clear justification in the decision.
Q: Where can I get help in Rotterdam?
A: The Rotterdam Legal Helpdesk and Municipality of Rotterdam offer guidance.
Veelgestelde vragen
Wat is mijn retourrecht?
Bij online aankopen heb je 14 dagen retourrecht zonder opgaaf van reden, tenzij de wettelijke uitzonderingen gelden.
Hoe lang geldt de wettelijke garantie?
Goederen moeten minimaal 2 jaar meewerken. Defecten die binnen 6 maanden ontstaan worden verondersteld al aanwezig te zijn.
Kan ik rente eisen over schulden?
Ja, je kunt wettelijke rente eisen (momenteel ongeveer 8% per jaar) over het openstaande bedrag.
Wat kan ik doen tegen oneerlijke handelspraktijken?
Je kunt klacht indienen bij de consumentenbond, de overheid of naar de rechter gaan.
Wat is een kredietovereenkomst?
Een kredietovereenkomst regelt hoe je geld leent, wat de rente is, en hoe je dit terugbetaalt.