Kruispuntbank

Kruispuntbank, literally “Crossroads Bank” in Dutch, refers to a central information system used within Belgium to facilitate the exchange of social security and related public data. In Dutch, it is often called Kruispuntbank van de Sociale Zekerheid (KBSZ). The bank acts as a central hub that connects social security institutions, public authorities, and authorized service providers to share information securely and efficiently.

The primary aim of the Kruispuntbank is to streamline administrative procedures, reduce duplication, and enable real-time verification of entitlements, eligibility, and coverage. It provides a standardized, interoperable infrastructure that supports electronic data exchange, identity verification, and status inquiries across multiple agencies. Access to data is restricted to approved actors and is governed by applicable privacy and data protection laws.

Data in the Kruispuntbank is organized around core social security elements and related public services. The system supports machine-to-machine interactions through secure interfaces and standardized data formats, enabling agencies to request or update information relevant to benefits, contributions, registrations, and other social services. Auditing, access controls, and data minimization practices are typically integrated to safeguard privacy and accountability.

History and governance of the Kruispuntbank reflect Belgium’s broader push toward e-government and digital public services. Initiated as part of social security reform efforts, the bank has evolved with changes in technology, privacy rules, and interagency cooperation. Today it remains a central component of the country’s public data infrastructure, contributing to more coherent and efficient public administration.