Tikkie app on a phone with a payment request

Dutch Tikkie Culture: How Paying with a Link Works

When you move to the Netherlands, you'll quickly notice that Dutch people are constantly sending each other payment requests via Tikkie. Whether it's splitting the bill at a restaurant, sharing the cost of a gift, or paying for shared groceries, Tikkie is everywhere.

This 'Tikkie culture' is typically Dutch and can take some getting used to at first. In this guide, we explain what Tikkie is, why it's so popular, and how to use it yourself. We also give example sentences you can use right away in daily life.

What is Tikkie and why is it so popular?

Tikkie is an app from ABN AMRO bank that lets you create a payment request and share it via a link. The recipient clicks the link and pays directly through iDEAL. It's super fast, and you don't need cash or a banking app from the same bank.

Its popularity comes from the fact that Dutch people like to be clear and direct about money. 'Dutch people are stingy' is a stereotype, but fair sharing is very normal here. Tikkie makes it easy to split costs without hassle. Also, card payments are the norm; cash is becoming less common.

Practical example sentences for Tikkie

I'll send you a Tikkie for yesterday's dinner.
Could you pay the Tikkie? I haven't seen it come through yet.
Did you see my Tikkie? It's for half of the groceries.
Do you want a Tikkie for the movie tickets? Then I'll create one.

How to create and pay a Tikkie?

Creating a Tikkie is simple. Download the Tikkie app (free) and link your Dutch bank account. Choose 'New payment request', enter the amount, and optionally add a description. Share the link via WhatsApp, Messenger, or email.

To pay, click the link you receive. You'll land on a page where you choose 'Pay with iDEAL'. Select your bank, log in, and confirm the payment. The money usually appears in the recipient's account immediately.

Note: you need a Dutch bank account to use Tikkie. You can also pay a Tikkie without the app, via iDEAL on the website.

Common mistakes and tips for newcomers

Tip: Always send a Tikkie right after the shared expense, otherwise you'll easily forget it.
Mistake: Some newcomers find it rude to send a Tikkie. In the Netherlands, it's actually normal and appreciated.
Tip: Use a clear description, for example 'Dinner March 5' or 'Gift for Anna'.
Mistake: Don't think you can only send a Tikkie for large amounts. Even for a coffee of €2.50, Dutch people send a Tikkie.

Tikkie and the Dutch language: practice with these sentences

Do you want to confidently send or receive a Tikkie in Dutch? Then practice with the example sentences above. In the Dutch Fluency NT2 app, you'll find more exercises with everyday situations like paying, inviting, and making plans. This way, you learn not only the language but also the culture.

How to practice this in Dutch

In the Dutch Fluency NT2 app, you can practice conversations about paying, inviting, and making plans. You'll learn how to suggest a Tikkie, how to respond, and how to communicate clearly about money. Practice listening and speaking so you can confidently send a Tikkie - entirely in Dutch!

Learn more about Dutch culture →

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Dutch bank account for Tikkie?

Yes, you need a Dutch bank account to use Tikkie. Without a Dutch account, you can't receive or send payments via Tikkie.

Is Tikkie free?

Yes, Tikkie is free for individuals. You don't pay any fees for creating or paying a Tikkie.

Can I send a Tikkie to someone without the app?

Yes, the recipient doesn't need the Tikkie app. They can pay via the link using iDEAL. Only the sender needs the app.

Is it rude to send a Tikkie for small amounts?

No, in the Netherlands it's very normal to split even small amounts. Being clear about money is actually appreciated.

More guides and exam tips

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