Payment Arrangement for Benefits in Den Haag
For residents of Den Haag, a benefits payment arrangement offers a practical solution with the Tax and Customs Administration to repay overpaid benefits, such as childcare allowance or rent allowance, in instalments. Ideal if you can't pay the full amount upfront. This agreement prevents aggressive collection procedures and provides financial breathing room, especially relevant in a city like Den Haag with many renters and families.
Why Apply for a Benefits Payment Arrangement in Den Haag?
The Tax and Customs Administration recovers overpaid benefits, for example due to income changes or audits. After a recovery notice, you generally have 8 weeks to pay. If you can't, enforcement measures like wage garnishment may follow. A payment arrangement offers respite and helps manage debts. In Den Haag, where the childcare benefits scandal impacted many victims, countless residents have benefited from this option.
Legal Basis for Benefits Payment Arrangements
The arrangement is set out in the General Tax Act (AWR), Article 67a, which requires the Tax and Customs Administration to provide a suitable solution for payment issues. For benefits, the Benefits Act (Tw) (Article 45 et seq.) refers to the AWR for recovery procedures. Additionally, the Policy Rules on Payment Arrangements for National Taxes from 2021 set specific requirements.
- Standard Option: Up to 12 months, maximum €20,000.
- Special Option: Longer term in cases like illness or job loss in Den Haag.
When to Apply for a Payment Arrangement as a Den Haag Resident?
Apply for the arrangement after receiving the recovery decision, well before the 8-week deadline. Key requirements:
- Proof that lump-sum payment is impossible (income, expenses, savings).
- No existing arrangement for the same debt.
- Continue paying ongoing benefits.
In the childcare benefits scandal in Den Haag, you can expect extra leniency, such as extensions or waivers (see Childcare Benefits Scandal).
How to Apply for a Payment Arrangement? Step-by-Step Guide for Den Haag
- Log in to Mijn Toeslagen using DigiD.
- Check 'Letters' for the decision.
- Select 'Request Payment Arrangement' or complete the online form.
- Upload documents: payslips, bank statements, Den Haag rental or purchase agreement.
- Propose a monthly amount (approx. 5-10% of net income).
- Receive approval within 4 weeks.
No DigiD? Contact the Benefits Helpline (0800-0543) or send a letter. Local assistance is available at Juridisch Loket Den Haag.
Comparison of Application Methods
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Mijn Toeslagen | Fast digital processing | DigiD required |
| Phone | Personal advice | Possible wait times |
| Letter | Accessible without DigiD | Slower process |
Rights and Obligations under a Payment Arrangement
Rights as a Den Haag resident:
- Fair treatment: Refusal cannot be arbitrary (Art. 67a AWR).
- File an objection within 6 weeks, or appeal to the District Court of Den Haag.
- Adjustments for life changes.
Obligations:
- Pay on time (often by the 28th).
- Report changes immediately (promotion, inheritance).
- No new debts with the Tax and Customs Administration.
Breach results in termination and enforcement.
Real-Life Cases from Den Haag
Case 1: Ms. Jansen from Scheveningen must repay €8,000 in childcare allowance. With €2,000 net income, she arranges €150/month over 60 months, approved with payslip proof.
Case 2: Mr. Ahmed, a victim of the childcare benefits scandal, faces €15,000 debt. Special arrangement: €100/month over 5 years with partial waiver. Alternative: wage garnishment.
Case 3: The De Vries family in Ypenburg failed to report partner income. €4,000 repayment. Standard: €400/month x 12. Extended upon unemployment with proof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine the arrangement with an objection in Den Haag?
Yes, the arrangement remains active during objections or appeals at the District Court of Den Haag. Successful objection leads to refunds.
Can't pay monthly?
Contact immediately for an extension. Once is okay with proof; repetition risks termination.
Interest on the arrangement?
No collection interest on voluntary repayments (Art. 67 AWR), except on arrears.
Garnishment already in place?
Arrangement lifts the garnishment. Request urgently by phone.
Tips for Den Haag Residents
- Calculate affordability: Use the tool on toeslagen.nl (max 5-7% of income).
- Prepare documents: Payslips, expense overview, debt assistance agreement.
- Seek help: Free at Municipality of Den Haag debt counselling or Juridisch Loket Den Haag. Complex cases? Consult local lawyers.
- Report changes: Avoid penalties.
- Extras: Waiver possible with minimal affordability (Art. 68 AWR).
Read more about Repaying Benefits, Childcare Benefits Scandal and local legal aid.
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