Every year, the cabinet creates a budget. This outlines how much money the government spends and on what. And how much money the government receives from taxes and premiums.

In 2026, the Dutch will have slightly more money left over. Poverty will also decrease.

The government wants people to not pay more tax on petrol and diesel than last year.

The government also wants the Netherlands to be safer and better prepared for global issues. Therefore, more money will go to the military.

What does the government do?

  • People will receive a tax discount on the tax they have to pay for petrol or diesel. This is to ensure that refueling does not become more expensive.
  • The education opportunities scheme will still exist. Schools will continue to receive extra money to help students who need it.
  • In 2026, less money will go to public transport in cities and villages. The government is moving this saving to 2027.
  • In 2028, more money will be available to build new prisons.
  • More money will go to the military.
  • Municipalities will receive over €700 million for youth care.

National Debt

Every country has debts: the national debt. The national debt of the Netherlands is low, even compared to other countries. The national debt is not higher than the agreement with Europe.

In 2026, the government will spend slightly more money than it receives. This is called a budget deficit. As a result, the national debt will rise slightly. However, the budget deficit of 2026 is not higher than the agreement with Europe.

Tax Plan 2026

The government also wants to adjust taxes. For example, to ensure that everyone pays fair taxes. And that people keep more money.

What the government wants, for example:

  • Companies must always pay tax (sugar tax) on soft drinks, vegetable juice, or fruit juice, even when a little milk or yogurt is added.
  • The flight tax will change. For shorter flights, you will pay less tax than for longer flights. The longer flights to the Caribbean part of the Kingdom will still fall under the lower tax.
  • In 2026, people will pay less tax for cars that do not emit CO2. For example, electric cars or cars running on hydrogen.

The House of Representatives must approve the plans from the Budget Memorandum and the Tax Plan. This will happen this autumn. Only then will we know if everything will actually go ahead. And whether plans need to be adjusted.