Social assistance, institution, or shelter

If you are 21 years of age or older and will be staying at a healthcare facility, nursing home, rehabilitation clinic, or other institution for more than 3 months, you can apply for social assistance benefits from the municipality. These social assistance benefits consist of an allowance for personal expenses and clothing.

If you are already receiving public assistance when you move into the facility or nursing home, your public assistance benefits will be reduced. This is because you will no longer have to pay for certain expenses (such as food) yourself.

How does it work?

The following conditions apply when applying for assistance in an institution or residential facility:

  • You are 21 years of age or older.
  • You are a Dutch national or are treated as such. You are treated as a Dutch national if you are from an EU country, Liechtenstein, Norway, Iceland, or Switzerland. You are also treated as a Dutch national if you have a valid residence permit or are otherwise legally authorized to live in the Netherlands.
  • You live in the Netherlands.
  • You have no income of your own, or your income is insufficient.
  • You have no equity, or not enough equity. This includes your savings, your home, and your car.
  • You cannot receive any other benefits. For example, unemployment benefits or disability benefits.
  • The facility where you are staying is not a prison or a psychiatric hospital.

What should I do?

To apply for welfare assistance, go to the " Welfare Assistance, Benefits" product page.

How long does it take?

You will be notified within 8 weeks whether you will receive welfare benefits.

Advance Payment

Within 4 weeks of submitting your application, you will receive an advance payment from the municipality. You will continue to receive the advance payment until the municipality decides whether you are eligible for social assistance.

File an objection

If you disagree with the municipality's decision, you may file an objection within 6 weeks.

Additional Information

If you are not at the facility or nursing home 7 days a week, the municipality may adjust the amount you receive accordingly.

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