Most people when looking for a job in the Netherlands check about the basics: salary, holiday allowance, maybe a pension. But the Dutch system hides a surprising number of tax‑free perks that many times is not even explained during hiring. In this post I write down the most useful benefits you should check.
1. Commuting Reimbursements (Reiskostenvergoeding)
Many employers in the Netherlands may reimburse commuting costs. It’s not mandatory unless your CAO or contract says so.
What’s tax‑free?
- €0.23 per kilometer (2026 rate) for commuting by car, bike, or on foot. Anything above this becomes taxable salary.
- Same €0.23/km applies if you use your own transport.
Let’s say you commute 20 km each way (40 km/day). Then, your employer can pay you: 40 km × €0.23 = €9.20 per day tax‑free.
Over 20 workdays, that’s €184/month tax‑free. A good part of the costs of your monthly groceries. Not bad right?
2. Working from home allowance
Many Dutch employers offer a home‑office allowance to cover coffee, heating, electricity, etc. Usually is not enough to cover the these costs but still it is something, specially if you work from home a lot.
3. Public Transport Benefits
Employers can also provide NS Business Cards (train, bus, tram, metro) and parking reimbursements.
4. Relocation Budgets (Verhuisvergoeding)
Many Dutch employers, especially tech companies, reimburse the shipment of personal belongings, moving costs and temporary housing support.
When I moved to the Netherlands my employer forgot (!) to mention that I could reimburse my moving expenses. I accidentally heard it from my colleagues.
5. Health and Well-being
Some employers offer mental health support, ergonomic home‑office equipment and gym memberships.
Until next time, stay savvy.
