Living costs have been uncomfortably high so far this year, and there’s been little sign of improvement. That is, until now.
If you feel like your wallet has been unusually empty lately, you’re not alone. But hey, the Dutch government might have a plan to better the dire conditions! Armed with €16 billion euros to spend, they’re setting out to ease the financial tension for Dutch folks.
These happy predictions come from a government leak to RTL Nieuws and are yet to be confirmed.
Low-income boost
If you’ve been living (or more like, trying to survive) on a minimum wage lately, you can comfort yourself with a superb 10% pay increase from January 2023. Now that will certainly alleviate all your money issues, right? 🤔
READ MORE | The cost of living in the Netherlands in 2022
In addition, low-income folks will get more help with paying those energy bills, as the energy allowance of €1,300 this year will be extended to next year.
The rent allowance and healthcare allowance will also increase, the latter to about €412 a year. Yay! You might finally be able to afford more than the bare minimum health insurance!
Dutch students will also see a slight increase in their income, as €250 million will be directed towards the student financing section of the government’s budget.
READ MORE | Watch your wallets! Dutch university fees are about to rise in 2023
Next year might also be a beneficial time to have a child (you know, except for the global recession and the looming threat of climate change), as €750 million will be allocated to the child budget.
Oil & gas in better weather?
Next spring, you’ll pay less for both petrol (17 cents less per litre) and diesel (11 cents less) — which is happy news for the odd Dutchie that doesn’t bike to work. 😉
In more climate-friendly news, the tax on oil and gas extraction will be increased quite heavily. This is expected to generate €2 billion in 2023.
Taxes, taxes, taxes
If you’re filthy rich, you might not be too happy about this, but it’s worth mentioning. The corporate tax, capital tax, transfer tax on the sale of real estate, and the taxes paid by major stakeholders and directors will all be increased.
All in all, these tax increases will yield tons of money in the coming years, several billion euros in fact.
What are your thoughts on the potential for more cash in the government’s 2023 plan? Tell us in the comments below! 👇