Voluntary work is work that you do unpaid and without obligation, for others or for society (source: Rijksoverheid ). You do it in the time that suits you. This is usually at a non-profit social organization. This can be in healthcare, welfare, sports, culture and education. But it may also be the case that you voluntarily help one or more private individuals with something they cannot (any longer) do themselves, for example doing odd jobs around the house or gardening.

Volunteering is therefore always a personal choice. For many people it is a pleasant way to spend free time, to meet new people, to gain experiences and to develop themselves. It is a way to participate in society. Volunteering can sometimes increase your chances of getting paid work.

Volunteering is never intended to provide economic benefit. However, reimbursements are possible. This may concern expenses that you can prove, such as travel expenses, paper or stamps. It can also be a reimbursement for costs that you do not have to prove.

In all cases, the Tax Authorities will stick to a maximum volunteer allowance of €180 per month and €1800 per year ( source: Tax Authorities ). These amounts apply to the total remuneration you receive for the work, plus any allowance for the expenses incurred.

If you receive more than these allowances as a volunteer, this must be stated with the wage and income tax.