What is Social Assistance?
Social assistance, also known as general assistance under the Participation Act, provides financial support to residents who have insufficient income to meet their living needs and cannot claim other benefits. It forms the ultimate social safety net in the Netherlands.
Conditions for Social Assistance in Rijswijk
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age category | Between 18 years and AOW retirement age |
| Financial situation | Insufficient income for living expenses |
| Assets | Wealth below the permitted threshold |
| Residence status | Legal residence in the Netherlands |
| Willingness to work | Willingness to perform work |
When No Entitlement to Social Assistance?
In the following situations, you will not receive social assistance:
- If you qualify for another benefit
- If your assets exceed the threshold
- If you are detained
- If you are a full-time student (possibly entitled to student finance)
- If you reside illegally in the Netherlands
How to Apply for Social Assistance in Rijswijk?
Step-by-Step Plan
- Register as a job seeker with the UWV WORK Company
- Submit an application for social assistance to the Municipality of Rijswijk
- Provide the required documents (such as ID, bank statements, and lease agreement)
- Attend an intake interview with the municipality
- The municipality will decide within 8 weeks
Required Documentation
- A valid identification document
- Recent bank statements (from the last 3 months)
- Lease agreement or mortgage agreement
- Recent payslips or benefit specifications
- Overview of assets (such as savings or valuable possessions)
Search Period and Waiting Time
For young people under 27 years of age, a search period of 4 weeks may apply, during which you must actively seek work or education.
How quickly is social assistance paid out?
The Municipality of Rijswijk aims to make a decision within 8 weeks. In case of urgent financial problems, you can apply for an advance payment.
Can I receive social assistance if I have a partner?
Yes, but the benefit will then be calculated based on your joint household. Your partner's income will be taken into account.
What if my unemployment benefit ends?
If your unemployment benefit (WW) ends and you have no other income, you can apply for social assistance from the Municipality of Rijswijk, provided you meet the conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Social Assistance in Rijswijk
Who can apply for unemployment benefit?
Unemployment benefit is possible if you are without work, have previously paid premiums, and are registered with the UWV.
What is the duration of unemployment benefit?
The duration depends on your employment history and varies between 3 months and 38 weeks.
What does social assistance mean exactly?
Social assistance is a form of financial aid from the municipality for people who do not earn enough to provide for their living expenses.
How can I apply for social assistance in Rijswijk?
You must submit an application for social assistance to the Municipality of Rijswijk. You must demonstrate your personal and financial situation with documents.
Am I required to look for work during a benefit period?
Yes, during unemployment benefit, you must actively apply for jobs and be able to prove this to the UWV.
Additional Information and Assistance
For legal support, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk. In case of disputes or objections to a decision by the municipality, you can go to the District Court of The Hague, which covers the district for Rijswijk.