Social Assistance Asset Limit Calculation in Rotterdam: how does it work?
For a social assistance benefit in Rotterdam, the municipality checks your assets and income to see if you qualify. The social assistance asset limit Rotterdam is decisive: if you exceed it, social assistance is often not possible. This article explains how your assets are calculated, what local rules apply, and how you can lodge an objection via the Rotterdam District Court (Wilhelminaplein 100-125).
The social assistance asset limit in Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, the national social assistance asset limit applies: for a single person, a maximum of € 30,000 (2024, excluding own home). For partners or families, that is € 60,000. These limits are indexed annually by the government and enforced by the Municipality of Rotterdam.
Tip for Rotterdam: Contact the Rotterdam Legal Aid Office (Westblaak 180) for free advice on your situation.
What counts as assets in Rotterdam?
Only your net assets after deduction of debts and exemptions. Exempt assets:
- Own home in Rotterdam (provided you live there).
- Business assets for an active business.
- Annuity/pension (not yet paid out).
- Car: up to €7,500 (single) or €15,000 (cohabiting).
- Grave rights or urns.
What does count:
- Savings, deposits, and investments (including crypto).
- Second home or holiday home outside your primary address.
- Cash, shares, and art.
Calculating assets: step by step
Add up assets, deduct debts and exemptions. Formula:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Base assets | Savings and investment accounts + other |
| Deductions | Debts + exemptions (car, home) |
| Net assets | Base - deductions = result |
Rotterdam example: Savings €28,000, investments €5,000, car €6,500 (exempt up to €7,500). Total base €33,000 - car exemption €6,500 = €26,500 net assets. Below the €30,000 limit: you qualify.
Exception: For high costs (e.g., home repairs in Rotterdam), the municipality may deviate. Submit proof!
Legal basis and Rotterdam-specific
Regulated in the Participation Act (art. 31). In Rotterdam, the municipality applies this strictly but offers participation trajectories for job seekers. In case of rejection: objection to the municipality, then appeal to the Rotterdam District Court (Wilhelminaplein 100-125). Free help via Rotterdam Legal Aid Office (Westblaak 180).
Practical steps in Rotterdam
- Submit application at Rotterdam.nl/bijstand.
- Provide proof of assets (bank statements).
- In case of excess: save or sell within 8 weeks (provision year).
- Lodge objection within 6 weeks.
Contact in Rotterdam
- Municipality of Rotterdam: Work square or online portal.
- Rotterdam District Court: Wilhelminaplein 100-125.
- Legal Aid Office: Westblaak 180, tel. 0800-8020.