Non-Payment Regulation for Health Insurance in The Hague
The non-payment regulation for health insurance provides Dutch citizens, including residents of The Hague, with a legal solution when they are unable to pay their health insurance premium. In The Hague, the Central Administration Office (CAK) covers the nominal premium on behalf of the insured, while the premium is deducted from their income. This ensures continuous basic coverage and prevents policyholders from losing their insurance—especially in cases of prolonged payment difficulties.
What Does the Non-Payment Regulation Entail in The Hague?
This scheme, often referred to as special assistance for premium payments, applies to insured individuals with an outstanding premium debt of at least six months. It serves as a critical safety net in the Dutch healthcare system, where basic health insurance is mandatory. In The Hague, an insurer may terminate a policy for non-payment, but the non-payment regulation intervenes to prevent this. The CAK takes over payment and collects the premium through income deductions (salary, benefits, or allowances). This covers only the nominal premium; the excess and any additional supplements remain the policyholder’s responsibility.
For low-income residents in The Hague—such as unemployed individuals or those receiving social assistance—this provision is vital. Without it, losing coverage could result in fines and health risks. It builds on general payment defaults in health insurance, where policyholders must first attempt a payment arrangement with their insurer. In The Hague, residents can seek advice from the Legal Helpdesk The Hague, which offers free assistance with debt and insurance matters.
Legal Basis
The non-payment regulation is governed by the Health Insurance Act (Zvw), specifically Section 5.3.3 (Articles 68–72 Zvw). Municipalities like The Hague Municipality can provide special assistance to low-income groups under this framework. The Non-Payment Regulation for Health Insurance, based on the Zvw, outlines the CAK’s implementation. Article 68 Zvw requires insurers to report arrears to the CAK, which then pays and collects the premium.
The Health Insurance Act (Wfz) supplements this with collection rules, while the Participation Act (successor to the WWB) covers special assistance for minimum-income recipients. Fines for being uninsured (up to €451 per month, per Article 68 Zvw) are waived. **Note:** This is not a subsidy but a mandatory collection mechanism to enforce insurance obligations. In The Hague, residents can apply for additional assistance through the Municipality.
How Does the Non-Payment Regulation Work Practically in The Hague?
The process begins after a minimum of six months of arrears. Your insurer reports this to the CAK, which verifies eligibility: no rejected payment arrangements and demonstrable inability or unwillingness to pay. If approved, the CAK transfers the nominal premium (up to €130/month in 2023) to the insurer.
Collection occurs via income deductions (salary, benefits, or allowances). Without income, the CAK issues a claim. **Example from The Hague:** Lisa, a unemployed resident of Scheveningen with a €1,500 arrears at VGZ, is notified after six months. She responds within 28 days, and the CAK approves her case. €130 is deducted monthly from her social assistance payment by The Hague Municipality, keeping her insured without penalties.
Another case: Karim, a freelancer in central The Hague with irregular income, ignores reminders. Facing policy termination, the regulation activates. He pays via CAK deductions and separately applies for a health care allowance from the Tax Authority to improve affordability.
Rights and Obligations Under the Regulation
Participants in The Hague have clear rights and duties. **Rights:** continuous health insurance coverage, waived fines, and no policy cancellation. You can object to CAK decisions within six weeks under the General Administrative Law Act; if rejected, appeal to the District Court of The Hague. Low-income individuals are entitled to a health care allowance (up to €130 in 2023).
- Right to a hearing: The CAK consults you before deciding.
- Protection against additional costs: Only CAK fees apply.
- Exit option: If your finances improve, you can terminate the arrangement and pay independently, with support from the Legal Helpdesk The Hague.
Obligations: Cooperate with collections, prevent new arrears, and report income changes. Non-compliance may lead to enforcement actions or legal proceedings. **Practice in The Hague:** Refusal could result in a court-ordered attachment via the District Court of The Hague.
Comparison: Non-Payment Regulation vs. Standard Payment Arrangement
| Aspect | Non-Payment Regulation | Standard Payment Arrangement |
|---|---|---|
| Arrears Duration | Minimum 6 months | Any period |
| Payer | CAK (via income) | Self to insurer |
| Costs | Nominal premium only | Full premium + possible interest |
| Consequences of Non-Payment | Enforcement action | Possible policy cancellation |
| Target Group | Low-income & long-term issues | Short-term problems |
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible for a health care allowance in The Hague?
Yes—even with a health care allowance, you may qualify for the regulation if you have arrears. The allowance is then paid directly to the CAK. Apply via the Tax Authority and consult The Hague Municipality for additional support.
What if I disagree with the CAK’s decision?
File an objection within six weeks with the CAK. If unsatisfied, appeal to the District Court of The Hague. The Legal Helpdesk The Hague provides free guidance on the process.