CAK Administrative Premium for Amsterdammers
The CAK administrative premium is an additional surcharge imposed by the Central Administration Office (CAK) on Amsterdammers with arrears in their health insurance premiums. In a city like Amsterdam, with high living costs and flexible jobs, this sanction discourages non-payment and ensures everyone remains insured. The CAK collects on behalf of health insurers under the Health Insurance Act (Zvw). This article explains the rules, your rights, and steps for Amsterdam residents.
What is the CAK administrative premium?
This premium is an administrative penalty for insured individuals who fail to pay the nominal health insurance premium on time or at all. After six months of arrears, your health insurer transfers the debt to the CAK. They then collect the arrears, ongoing premiums, and a surcharge. In 2024, this is €75 per month on top of the €144 nominal premium. This encourages payment and prevents uninsured status, which is crucial in bustling Amsterdam.
You will recognize it from a 'decision to collect' from the CAK stating the total amount. If you do not pay, collection follows via bailiff or attachment.
Legal basis
This is governed by the Health Insurance Act (Zvw), including:
- Article 68 Zvw: Transfer to CAK after six months of arrears.
- Article 69 Zvw: Collection of the premium, max. €75 per month (subject to indexation).
- Article 66a Zvw: Obligation to insure and pay premiums.
- Article 70 Zvw: Cessation upon settlement of the debt.
Based on the General Administrative Law Act (Awb) for objections and appeals. The CAK is an administrative body, so procedures are administrative law matters.
Determination and collection in practice
- Arrears notification: Health insurer transfers after reminders.
- CAK reminder: 8 weeks to pay yourself.
- Collection decision: Including surcharge.
- Enforcement measures: Bailiff, wage garnishment, or suspension of benefits.
Amsterdam example: For a €1,200 debt (10 months at €120), the CAK collects €219 monthly (€144 + €75) until paid off.
Rights and obligations
Rights
- Objection: Within 6 weeks (Awb art. 6:3), e.g., with proof of payment.
- Appeal: To the Amsterdam District Court (administrative law division) within 6 weeks of rejection.
- Interim relief: Suspension of collection (Awb art. 8:81).
- Waiver: Apply to CAK with income proof; also check with the Municipality of Amsterdam.
Obligations
- Pay on time to avoid escalation.
- Report changes in address or income.
- Arrange a payment plan if needed.
Amsterdam example: Mr. De Vries from Amsterdam-West had arrears due to seasonal work. After transfer to CAK, he filed an objection with payslips via the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office: surcharge reduced and deferral granted. Otherwise, attachment on his benefit.
Comparison: Standard vs. CAK premium
| Aspect | Standard premium | CAK administrative premium |
|---|---|---|
| Collection | Health insurer | CAK (after transfer) |
| Amount 2024 | €144/month | €144 + €75 = €219/month |
| Procedure | Private law | Administrative law (objection/appeal) |
| Sanction | Reminder | Enforced collection, attachment |
Frequently asked questions
Can I avoid the premium?
Yes, arrange payment agreements with your insurer before CAK transfer. Mandatory after six months. See health insurance arrears.
No money? What now?
Apply to CAK for waiver/deferral with income proof. Help via Amsterdam Legal Aid Office or Municipality of Amsterdam.
Filing an objection?
Within 6 weeks to CAK with arguments and evidence. Decision in 6-12 weeks; then appeal to Amsterdam District Court.
Does it stop with a new insurer?
No, it continues until debt is cleared. Always notify CAK.
Tips for Amsterdammers
- Prevent issues: Set up direct debit and check your policy.
- Contact the Amsterdam Legal Aid Office for free advice if in doubt.
- Check with the Municipality of Amsterdam for special assistance for premiums.