Reply letter templates for the Netherlands

Ready-made letters in Dutch, with an English explanation.

• Object to the decision (bezwaar) — Use this if you think the decision is wrong. Send it before the deadline, signed, with the date or number of the decision. If you need more time for your reasons, send it anyway — the office usually gives you time to add them.
• Ask for more time (uitstel) — Use this if you can’t make the deadline. Send it before the deadline ends.
• Ask to pay in parts (betalingsregeling) — Use this if you can’t pay the full amount at once. Offer an amount you can really pay every month.
• Ask for a new appointment — Use this if you can’t come. Send it before the appointment and add proof if you can (for example a doctor’s note).
• Ask to cancel a local tax (kwijtschelding) — Use this if your income is low and you can’t pay a tax from your gemeente or water board. Many have an online form — use it if there is one. Add proof of your income, costs and bank balance.
• Ask for proof of the debt — Use this if you don’t recognise the debt or the amount. Ask for proof before you pay, and keep a copy of your letter.