If you have a low income and it is impossible for you to pay exceptional and unexpected costs, you may be entitled to extra financial support from the municipality. This is called “bijzondere bijstand” (special social assistance). Special social assistance is subject to the following conditions among others: (a) You are lawfully living and staying in the Netherlands; (b) You do not have enough income and funds to pay the costs yourself; (c) You are at least 18 years old; (d) You have expenses due to an exceptional or urgent situation, such as surgery or moving house; and (e) You cannot cover the costs in any other way.
You can find out how to apply for special social assistance on your municipality’s website. Your municipality will determine whether you are entitled to special social assistance, and if so, how much.
If you have any questions about your situation, contact your municipality. You can also contact the Sociaal Raadslieden (social counsellors) in your municipality.
