Debt Assistance and Social Assistance in Amsterdam: Impact on Asset Limit

Debt assistance in Amsterdam, via WSNP or municipal trajectories such as SchuldHulpMatigAmsterdam (SHMA), positively influences the social assistance limit. In the WSNP (Debt Rescheduling Natural Persons Act), €5,670 per person is protected assets (2024), in addition to the social assistance limit. The Municipality of Amsterdam applies the asset income declaration flexibly in case of debts: no repayment obligation for social assistance thanks to Article 41 Participation Act (formerly WWB), whereby debts are deducted from the assets. In an amicable trajectory via SHMA, you retain your benefit during repayment. Exception: WSNP does not stop social assistance, but applies a 'reasonable provision level' aligned with Amsterdam standards. Always report debts in your application to the Amsterdam Social Assistance Team (via DigiD or counter at District); this prevents sanctions and activates assistance via the Debt Desk. Practice in Amsterdam: the garnishment-free foot protects €1,500 monthly, with additional local regulations for tenants in social housing. After successful WSNP: clean slate and full social assistance. Trajectory costs free via SHMA or Nibud partners. Tips: start with the free budget management course from the municipality or Humanitas Amsterdam. Legal basis: Bankruptcy Act, Participation Act and Amsterdam Ordinance on social support. Success rate in Amsterdam 45-65%: clean slate achievable with early reporting. Combine with social assistance for the minimum Amsterdam living standard, including allowances for rent and healthcare. Apply for protective administration at the district court via VeiligheidNL for problematic debts.