Inheritance law in the Netherlands.

Have you cared for your parent for years without payment? After their death, it can feel unfair if everyone inherits equally. Yet providing more informal care does not automatically entitle you to a larger share of the inheritance.

Dutch inheritance law does provide for possible compensation for certain unpaid work. This is called a lump sum, also known as salaire différé. The assessment considers the work performed, the circumstances and what you have already received as remuneration or a benefit.

Start by preparing an overview. Which tasks did you perform, how often and over what period? What consequences did this have for your paid work? And did you receive payments or rent-free accommodation, for example?

Keep diaries, messages and existing agreements. Make clear which hours you estimated afterwards. Also pay attention to timing. Notifying the relevant parties of a claim and requesting payment are separate steps.

So do not wait until the entire estate has been sorted out or everyone agrees on an amount. Keep groceries and other expenses you paid on your parent's behalf separate from your own care hours. Different agreements may apply to those expenses.

A carefully prepared file reveals what is actually in dispute. If you are unsure, have someone assess in good time what entitlement you may have and which time limits apply to your situation.

Read the full article and sources. General information does not replace advice about your own situation.