Refusing CIZ Advice in Amsterdam: Your Rights and Action Plan
When the **Central Information Point for Care (CIZ)** in Amsterdam rejects your application for **Intensive Care (IZ)**, you risk losing double child benefit. Fortunately, the law provides you with powerful options: objection and appeal. This article, aimed at Amsterdam residents, guides you through the procedure, including local institutions such as the **Amsterdam District Court** and the **Amsterdam Legal Aid Office**.
What is CIZ Advice and Why is it Crucial for Amsterdam Families?
The CIZ provides an independent **medical-social judgment** on the necessity of Intensive Care, at the request of **UWV**, **Amsterdam municipality** or **COA**. Essential for **double child benefit** for children with severe conditions such as cancer, autism or multiple disabilities.
A negative CIZ advice often blocks your application, but in Amsterdam you can challenge it. CIZ decisions are not binding; they constitute advice.
Legal Frameworks
- Participation Act (ex-WWB): Sets requirements for double child benefit and CIZ red.
- Awb (General Administrative Law Act): Guarantees objection and appeal possibilities.
- Wmk Article 10: Procedure for CIZ reassessment.
When is CIZ Advice Requested in Amsterdam?
In case of suspected need for Intensive Care, including:
- Chronic illnesses (e.g., cystic fibrosis, epilepsy).
- Physical/mental limitations (e.g., CP, Rett syndrome).
- Complex care (combinations of conditions).
- Severe disorders (e.g., Fragile X syndrome).
Common Grounds for Refusal by CIZ
- Unclear medical records: Too few specialist reports.
- Underestimated care intensity: CIZ minimizes intensity.
- Formal errors: Late submission or incomplete forms.
- Inconsistency in information: Conflicting medical statements.
Action Plan in Case of CIZ Refusal in Amsterdam
You have **objection** and **appeal** as weapons. Follow this local action plan:
Step 1: File Objection with CIZ
File an objection with CIZ within 6 weeks (by post or online). Add new evidence: recent MRIs, daily care hours log, statements from Amsterdam specialists (AMC, OLVG). CIZ must reconsider.
Step 2: Seek Help from Amsterdam Legal Aid Office
Free advice at **Vijzelstraat 77, 1017 HJ Amsterdam** (020-533 0 533). They assist with objection letters and preparation.
Step 3: Appeal to Amsterdam District Court
After CIZ objection rejection: appeal within 6 weeks to **Amsterdam District Court, Parnassusweg 220, 1071 AG**. No court fee for benefit recipients. Request preliminary relief for immediate benefit.
Step 4: Appeal on Points of Law and Extra Tips
Dissatisfied? Go to the **Council of State**. In Amsterdam: engage a pro bono lawyer via the Legal Aid Board. Successful in 40%+ cases with good substantiation.
Practical Helplines in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam District Court: Parnassusweg 220 – Administrative Law Division.
- Legal Aid Office: Vijzelstraat 77 – Walk-in or appointment.
- Amsterdam Municipality: Care desk per district.
- Zorgbelang Gelderland (regional support): Extra expertise.
Act quickly: deadlines are strict. With the right approach, you often fully restore your rights.