Transition to Salary from Welfare in Amsterdam

From welfare to work in Amsterdam? The 'bridging arrangement' from the Participation Act helps Amsterdammers perfectly. For a full-time job, you retain 100% welfare for 6 months alongside your salary (up to the maximum welfare level of the municipality of Amsterdam). After that, the benefit automatically stops. For part-time work, a pro rata retention applies, adjusted to your hours. This encourages outflow from welfare; in 2024, Amsterdam offers a one-time bonus of €300 after 6 months of work, in addition to national arrangements. Participation Act article 78 regulates this nationally, but Amsterdam applies it via the Work and Income team. Report your new job immediately at the Municipal Counter or via the Mijn Amsterdam portal; the municipality of Amsterdam adjusts your benefit lightning-fast. Partner income always counts in the calculation. After termination, in case of job loss, you can reapply with a 4-week 'reconnection period' without asset testing – ideal in the dynamic Amsterdam labour market. Advantages in Amsterdam: no poverty trap thanks to this buffer. The municipality offers free job application training via Werkplein Amsterdam and partners such as Randstad. Penalty for not reporting is at least €546. Check your status via the UWV work folder or the Amsterdam digital dashboard. Approximately 40% return to welfare within a year; therefore, build a buffer with the extra income. Combine with Amsterdam study cost reimbursements for retraining, such as via the Leerwerkplein for sectors like hospitality, tech or care – highly in demand in the city. Specific to Amsterdam: with the high rental prices and vibrant job market, this arrangement is crucial. Contact your work consultant in East, West, South or Centre for personal advice.