Frequently Asked Questions - Child benefit

Child benefit is paid at the end of the month, always before the 1st of the next month.

You will receive child benefit from the month in which you meet all the conditions on the 1st of that month. SZW has a legal deadline of 8 weeks to process your application, but it is often done sooner.

• Be sure to include all required documents to avoid delays.

Yes, you need a local bank account to receive child benefit. This means an account at a bank registered in the Caribbean Netherlands.

No, your income does not affect whether you are entitled to child benefit.

Report any changes to SZW as soon as possible to avoid delays or interruptions in your child benefit:

• Moving to a new address within or outside the Caribbean Netherlands: Report your new address within 14 days after updating it with Civil Affairs;
• New bank account number: Send your new bank details as soon as possible;
• Change in contact details: Let us know your new phone number or email address to ensure smooth communication;
• Studying abroad (children under 18): Submit an annual proof of enrolment from the school.

Child benefit is a non-repayable benefit. You do not have to pay it back.

Contact SZW before you leave and request a termination letter. You will need this to apply for child benefit again in the European Netherlands.

Yes, you need to submit a separate application for each new child. A shorter application form is available for parents or carers who are already receiving child benefit.

No, child benefit will continue as long as your child is under 18, even if they receive student finance. If your child is studying abroad, you must submit a proof of enrolment each year to prevent child benefit from stopping unnecessarily.