Black Work and Welfare Benefits in Amsterdam: Legal Risks
In Amsterdam, black work alongside welfare breaches the reporting obligation (Participation Act art. 17). The municipality of Amsterdam strictly controls via the Work and Income Department (DWI), with discoveries through bank transactions, tips, or lifestyle checks in neighborhoods such as the Jordaan or Bijlmer.
Enforcement in Amsterdam
Social investigation by the DWI targets cash payments in the hospitality and construction sectors, where black work is common. Punishable under Criminal Code art. 348, with intensive cooperation between the municipality, Tax Authorities, and police.
Administrative and Criminal Consequences
Full recovery of welfare benefits, fines up to €10,000, and possibly a criminal record. Tax-wise: reassessment of wage and income tax by the Amsterdam Tax Authorities. In 2023, the municipality recovered millions through fraud prevention.
Prevention and Rights in Amsterdam
- Report additional income immediately to the DWI via the MijnDWI portal
- Object to sanction decisions within 6 weeks
- Engage an Amsterdam lawyer for criminal cases via the Council for Legal Aid
Legal part-time jobs in Amsterdam, such as in retail or bike taxis, are permitted if reported. Transparency prevents issues with your municipal benefit.