Non-Payment Regulation for Health Insurance in Delft
The non-payment regulation for health insurance provides a legal solution for residents of Delft struggling to pay their health insurance premiums. Under this scheme, the Central Administration Office (CAK) takes over payment of the nominal premium and remits it to the insurer on your behalf. This ensures you retain your basic coverage while the premium is deducted from your income. The measure prevents you from becoming uninsured and helps address structural payment difficulties, tailored specifically to the needs of Delft residents.
What Does the Non-Payment Regulation Mean for Delft Residents?
This regulation—often referred to as special assistance for health premiums—applies to insured individuals in Delft with a premium arrears of at least six months. Dutch healthcare law mandates a basic insurance requirement, and failure to pay risks policy cancellation by the insurer. The regulation intervenes: the CAK covers the premium and collects it via salary or benefit deductions. This applies exclusively to the nominal premium; you must arrange your own excess and subsidies. For low-income residents in Delft, the Municipality of Delft offers additional support.
In practice, this supports vulnerable groups in Delft, such as unemployed individuals, minimum-wage earners, or debtors. Without this measure, many risk fines and health complications. It builds on standard payment agreements with your insurer but provides a stronger safety net. For personalized advice, contact the Delft Legal Advice Desk.
Legal Basis
The regulation is governed by the Health Insurance Act (Zvw), specifically Section 5.3.3 (Articles 68–72). Municipalities like Delft can provide special assistance to low-income households. The Non-Payment Regulation for Health Insurance outlines the CAK’s role in implementation. Article 68 Zvw requires insurers to report arrears to the CAK, which then intervenes.
The Health Insurance Financing Act (Wfsv) and, for minimum-wage earners, the Participation Act supplement this framework. Fines for being uninsured (up to €451 per month) are waived. Note: this is not a grant but a mandatory collection to ensure insurance compliance. In case of disputes in Delft, you may appeal to the District Court of The Hague.
How Does the Non-Payment Regulation Work for Delft Residents?
The process begins after six months of arrears. Your insurer notifies the CAK, which verifies eligibility: no rejected payment arrangements and no voluntary payments. If approved, the CAK pays the nominal premium (up to €130 in 2023) directly to the insurer.
Deductions are made from income such as salary, benefits, or subsidies; without income, a claim is issued. For example: Lisa, an unemployed resident in Delft’s city center with a €1,500 arrears to VGZ, receives a CAK letter after six months. She responds within 28 days, and upon approval, €130 is deducted monthly from her municipal benefit. She remains insured without additional fines.
Another case: Tom, a freelancer from Delft-Noord, accumulates arrears. After a cancellation threat, the regulation activates. He arranges healthcare subsidies via the Tax Authority to ease the burden, and the Delft Legal Advice Desk assists with the application.
Rights and Obligations Under the Regulation
Participants in Delft have clear rights and obligations. Rights include: continuous coverage, waived fines, and no policy cancellation. You may object to CAK decisions within six weeks under the General Administrative Law Act; appeals go to the District Court of The Hague. Low-income earners are entitled to healthcare subsidies (up to €130 in 2023).
- Right to consultation: The CAK consults you before deciding.
- Protection against additional costs: Only CAK fees are collected.
- Exit option: You may terminate the scheme if your finances improve.
Obligations include: cooperating with collections, preventing new arrears, and reporting income changes. Non-compliance may lead to forced recovery or legal action, such as attachment of your account. The Delft Legal Advice Desk provides guidance on compliance.
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 |
| Scope | Nominal premium only | Full premium + possible interest |
| Consequences of non-compliance | Forced collection | Policy termination |
| Target group | Low-income and long-term issues | Short-term problems |
Frequently Asked Questions for Delft Residents
Am I eligible for healthcare subsidies?
Yes, even with subsidies, you may qualify if you have arrears. Subsidies are paid directly to the CAK. Apply via the Tax Authority and check with the Municipality of Delft for local support.
What if I disagree with a CAK decision?
File an objection with the CAK within six weeks. If rejected, appeal to the District Court of The Hague. The Delft Legal Advice Desk offers free assistance with the process.