Asset Limit for Social Assistance Benefit in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, in addition to income, a strict asset limit applies for social assistance benefits. For 2024, a single person may have a maximum of €7,575 in assets, and a couple €15,150. Have you saved more? Then your social assistance in the capital will be refused or terminated. Assets include savings, investments, second homes, crypto, and even a boat in the canals, but your own home and furnishings remain exempt up to €58,000 per person. Under the Work and Social Assistance Act (WWB), Article 31, an 'asset income supplement' applies: savings above the exemption are considered fictitious income (up to 4% return). For those aged 65 and over in Amsterdam, the exemption is higher: €66,050. The Municipality of Amsterdam may deviate in exceptional circumstances, such as high medical costs or debts due to the expensive housing market. Local regulations sometimes offer additional assistance for Amsterdammers with student loans or energy bills. When applying via the Amsterdam Work and Income Desk, you must declare everything; the Tax Authorities and DUO share data. Concealing assets is fraud, with fines up to €11,760 or criminal prosecution by the Public Prosecution Service. Tip: reduce your assets first, for example by paying off debts. AOW recipients fall under more lenient IOAW rules. Check your personal situation with the social assistance calculator on amsterdam.nl or call the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam for free advice.