Cash deposits: from what amount does the state begin to control
Jul 21
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From 1 January 2026, cash payments over €3,000 are prohibited.
With the introduction of new rules, the government aims to reduce the use of cash. Although many Dutch people prefer cash, more and more people are putting their money in bank accounts.
Why does the state check cash deposits?
If you deposit a large amount of cash, banks notify the FIU-Netherlands (Financial Intelligence Unit), an institution that monitors suspicious transactions. This obligation is part of the Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Prevention Act (Wwft).
FIU Netherlands requires reporting of:
Transactions of €10,000 or more: currency exchange or change of banknote denomination.
Cash deposit of €10,000 or more by credit card or as a prepayment.
What amount of cash can be deposited without notice?
Banks are required to report deposits of €10,000 or more. If the amount does not exceed €9,999.99, no report is required. But it still depends on the bank's policy. Previously, this limit was €15,000, but was reduced.
Is it possible to bypass the control by dividing this amount into several transfers?
If you deposit €15,000 in instalments (e.g. €7,500), the bank may consider the transactions to be related, consider them “unusual” and hold the money, asking you questions: where are they from, can you provide supporting documents?
Ban on cash payments in stores
From 1 January 2026, cash payments over €3,000 in shops are prohibited. For example, you cannot pay in cash for a €4,000 TV. This is also aimed at combating money laundering.
How much cash to keep at home
There is no limit on how much you can keep at home. But if the amount exceeds the thresholds set out in your tax return (for 2025, €661 for singles and €1,322 for joint finances), the remainder is considered an asset and is taxable under certain conditions.
Home Cash Stockpile Tips
Experts advise keeping some supplies for emergencies:
Nibud recommends: €70 per adult and €30 per child (based on 3 days)
DNB: from €100 to €300 per adult per day
Bank fees for cash deposits vary widely:
The following tariffs are currently in effect:
ING : €6 for each banknote deposit.
Rabobank : €2.25 for the first four and €9.50 from the fifth instalment.
ABN AMRO : 0.5% of the amount for each contribution.
Cash can be deposited at Geldmaat ATMs located in Primera, Bruna, Readshop and other locations. Coins can be deposited at, for example, Gamma, Karwei and coin ATMs.
We recommend that you regularly check the commission rates with your bank.