Dutch Holiday Allowance (Vakantiegeld) Calculator
Your Details
Your base monthly salary, before taxes.
Reduces the tax burden on your holiday allowance.
Holiday Allowance Breakdown
Please enter valid inputs to see the calculation.
What This Calculator Does
This tool estimates your net holiday allowance (vakantiegeld) payout after the special withholding tax. It's designed for employees who want to understand their May payslip, compare gross vs net holiday pay, or see how the 30% ruling affects the payout.
Key inputs: gross annual salary, tax year, and whether you have the 30% ruling. The calculator applies the statutory 8% holiday allowance rate and the special tax rate (bijzonder tarief).
What's included: gross holiday allowance (8% of annual salary), withholding tax at your top marginal rate, and the effect of the 30% ruling where applicable.
What's excluded: employer-specific holiday allowance rates above 8%, pension contributions, and other payroll deductions. This estimates the statutory minimum only.
Learn more: Read our guide on understanding your Dutch payslip.
How to Calculate Your Vakantiegeld
In the Netherlands, almost every employee working under a contract receives a statutory mandatory 8% holiday allowance (vakantiegeld or vakantietoeslag).
The "Bijzonder Tarief" (Special Tax Rate)
You may be surprised when you look at your May payslip. Because the holiday allowance is paid on top of your normal salary, the tax authorities calculate the income tax at the top marginal rate of your income bracket so you do not structurally underpay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vakantiegeld (Holiday Allowance)?
By Dutch law, most employees are entitled to a minimum holiday allowance of 8% of their gross annual salary. It is typically accumulated throughout the year and paid out in an annual lump sum, usually in May.
Why is Vakantiegeld taxed so heavily?
It is taxed at a 'special rate' (bijzonder tarief) which corresponds to the highest tax bracket your income falls into. This ensures you don't underpay taxes and end up with a high tax bill at the end of the year.
Does the 30% ruling apply to the holiday allowance?
Yes. If you have the 30% ruling, it also applies to your holiday allowance, meaning part of your bonus will be paid out tax-free.
Disclaimer: The calculations provided by DutchExpatTax.com are for informational purposes only and do not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. While we strive for accuracy using data from the Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax Authority), individual circumstances may vary. Always consult a qualified tax advisor for personalized advice. Last updated: March 2026.