Skip to content

Tips

Quick tips and practical advice to save money and make smarter financial decisions.

13 articles

Tips

Apple Pay & Google Pay in the Netherlands: Which Cards Work

Not all Dutch cards work with Apple Pay or Google Pay. Here's what actually gets accepted at Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and other retailers in 2025.

6 min read
Tips

What 2 Years of ECB Rate Hikes Taught Dutch Savers

The ECB raised rates ten times between 2022 and 2023. Here's what happened to Dutch savings accounts—and what it means for your money now.

5 min read
Tips

Is a Dutch Business Account (ZZP) Worth It for Your Side Gig?

Not every side hustle needs a zakelijke rekening. Here's when a Dutch business account makes sense for freelancers—and when you can skip it.

5 min read
Tips

How to Build an Emergency Fund as a New Expat in the Netherlands

Moving to the Netherlands? Learn how much to save, where to keep your emergency fund, and realistic timelines for expats just starting out.

6 min read
Tips

How Expat Families Actually Pay for International Schools

International school fees can hit €25k per child. Four financing strategies that work, from employer negotiations to tax-deductible options.

5 min read
Tips

How to Negotiate Salary as an Expat in the Netherlands

Dutch salary negotiations are different. Learn the unwritten rules, what's actually negotiable, and how to avoid leaving €5k+ on the table.

5 min read
Tips

International School Financing: 7 Smart Tips for Expat Families

Discover practical financing strategies for international schools in the Netherlands. Learn how to budget, save, and access employer benefits for education costs.

9 min read
Tips

How to Build a Credit History in the Netherlands as an Expat

Understanding the Dutch BKR credit system — how it works, what gets registered, why it matters for mortgages, and how to build a positive financial profile.

7 min read
Tips

Rent Deposits in the Netherlands: Your Rights as an Expat

Know your rights as a tenant — how much landlords can charge for deposits, how to get your money back, documenting property condition, and red flags to watch for.

6 min read
Tips

Best Budgeting Apps for Expats in the Netherlands

The best budgeting apps and tools for expats — YNAB, Toshl, Money Manager, built-in bank tools, spreadsheets, and Dutch-specific budget categories to track.

7 min read
Tips

How to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees in the Netherlands

Practical tips for expats to avoid or minimise foreign transaction fees on credit cards, debit cards, and international transfers in the Netherlands.

6 min read
Tips

5 Ways to Maximise Your Savings Interest in the Netherlands

Practical strategies for expats to earn more interest on their savings in the Netherlands, from choosing the right account to optimising across multiple banks.

6 min read
Tips

Financial Checklist: Your First 30 Days in the Netherlands

A step-by-step financial checklist for expats moving to the Netherlands: what to do in your first 30 days, from bank accounts and insurance to tax registration and budgeting.

8 min read