Year-End Benefit in Amsterdam: What Does the Minimum Wage Exclusion Mean?
In Amsterdam, as in the rest of the Netherlands, an important rule also applies to the year-end benefit: if you receive the statutory minimum wage or less, you may under certain circumstances not be eligible for the year-end benefit. This rule is laid down in the Year-End Benefit Act and can have consequences for many Amsterdam residents with a low income. What does this mean exactly for residents of Amsterdam? And where can you go for help?
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### When Does the Minimum Wage Exclusion Apply in Amsterdam?
The minimum wage exclusion applies if you are fully or partially dependent on a benefit or income below the statutory minimum wage. This may be the case, for example, with:
- Social assistance (social assistance benefit) from the Municipality of Amsterdam (via [Social Affairs Amsterdam](https://www.amsterdam.nl/socialezaken/)).
- Unemployment benefit (WW) or special assistance below the minimum wage.
- Benefits such as rent allowance or child-related budget (if your income is too low).
Important: Even if you have a part-time job and your total income remains below the minimum wage, you may not be eligible for the year-end benefit.
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### What Do You Do If You Fall Below the Minimum Wage in Amsterdam?
If you qualify for the exclusion, this does not mean you automatically get nothing. There are ways to still receive financial support, such as:
1. One-off social assistance scheme from the Municipality of Amsterdam
- Ask [Social Affairs Amsterdam](https://www.amsterdam.nl/socialezaken/) if you qualify for an extra allowance outside the regular year-end benefit.
- Important: This is not automatic; you must actively apply.
2. Help with applying for benefits
- Check if you are entitled to extra benefits (e.g. energy allowance or healthcare allowance) via [Toeslagen.nl](https://www.toeslagen.nl/).
- The Legal Counter Amsterdam (Vijzelstraat 77) can help you fill out forms.
3. Amsterdam District Court for disputes
- If you think you have been wrongly denied the year-end benefit, you can object with the Municipality of Amsterdam or file a complaint with the Amsterdam District Court (Parnassusweg 220).
- The Legal Counter offers free legal assistance with filing objections.
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### Where Can You Go in Amsterdam?
- Municipality of Amsterdam (Social Affairs)
๐ [Website](https://www.amsterdam.nl/socialezaken/)
๐ 020 โ 252 2222
For questions about social assistance, benefits, and extra allowances.
- Legal Counter Amsterdam
๐ Vijzelstraat 77, 1017 HK Amsterdam
๐ 020 โ 523 1313
Free legal advice on benefits, objections, and complaints.
- Amsterdam District Court
๐ Parnassusweg 220, 1066 CX Amsterdam
๐ 020 โ 550 2222
For formal disputes about benefits.
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### Conclusion: Check Your Situation and Seek Help
If you fall below the minimum wage in Amsterdam, that does not mean you get nothing at all. Take action:
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Ask Social Affairs Amsterdam about options.
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Use the Legal Counter for legal help.
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Check toeslagen.nl for extra support.
Note: Application deadlines often run in November/December. Be on time!
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Questions? Ask them in the comments or visit the Legal Counter Amsterdam for personal advice.