The Wmo Personal Contribution in The Hague
The **Wmo personal contribution** is the amount residents of The Hague must pay for support under the Welfare Support Act (Wmo). This system ensures a fair distribution of care costs, based on income and assets. The maximum amount is capped to prevent unexpected high expenses, and collection is handled by the Central Administration Office (CAK). This article explains how it works in The Hague, including practical examples and tips for local support through the Municipality of The Hague.
What Is the Wmo Personal Contribution in The Hague?
The Wmo assists The Hague residents with disabilities or limitations in daily life, such as cleaning support, home adaptations, or transportation. Not all services are free; the Municipality of The Hague may charge a personal contribution to maintain solidarity in society and reduce pressure on public finances. For advice, residents can contact the Juridisch Loket Den Haag (Legal Desk The Hague).
This contribution applies to most Wmo services but not to specific medical aids or protected housing. The rate depends on income, with an annual maximum. For 2024, this is **€20.07 per month**, capped at **€2,640 per year**. This amount is adjusted annually. If multiple services are used in The Hague, all costs are combined toward this maximum.
Legal Basis of the Wmo Personal Contribution
The **Wmo personal contribution** is governed by the Welfare Support Act 2015 (Wmo 2015). Key provisions include:
- Article 6.1 Wmo 2015: The Municipality of The Hague may request a contribution for services.
- Article 6.2 Wmo 2015: The contribution must be reasonable and not exceed costs.
- Wmo Personal Contribution Regulation 2015: This outlines rates, exemptions, and collection methods. The CAK enforces collection under the Central Administration Office Act (Wcak).
The Municipality of The Hague determines eligibility, while the CAK sets and collects the contribution. For more on the CAK’s role, see CAK and personal contributions in care.
How Is the Personal Contribution Calculated in The Hague?
The calculation depends on individual circumstances and follows a straightforward process. The CAK retrieves income data from the Dutch Tax Authority. A standard monthly rate applies, which may be lower for low-income households.
- Step 1: Income Assessment. The CAK uses your assessed income (gross minus exemptions) from two years prior.
- Step 2: Asset Adjustment. Assets exceeding **€33,748 (2024)** may increase the contribution, but not beyond the annual cap.
- Step 3: Apply the Maximum. You pay a maximum of the set amount annually, even if multiple services are used in The Hague.
Children under 18 are exempt, and partners in The Hague are jointly assessed for shared support.
Comparison with Other Schemes in The Hague
For clarity, a comparison of the Wmo personal contribution with other systems:
| Scheme | Monthly Maximum (2024) | Annual Maximum | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wmo | €20.07 | €2,640 | Home care and aids in The Hague |
| Wlz (Zvw) | €20.07 | €2,640 | Institutional care |
| Eigen Risico (Excess) | €385 (variable) | No fixed cap | Medical care |
The Wmo contribution in The Hague remains low and capped, unlike the excess in health insurance.
Practical Examples from The Hague
Example 1: A 65+ resident in The Hague on AOW and a small pension receives household help via the Wmo. With an annual income of €25,000, the Municipality approves 4 hours per week. The monthly contribution is **€20.07**, capped at **€2,640 annually**. A later stairlift installation in their home also falls under this cap.
Example 2: A single mother in The Hague with two young children requests daycare support. She pays the maximum rate, but childcare support is free. For low-income households, such as those receiving social assistance, the Municipality may offer exemptions or reductions.
These examples show how the contribution in The Hague is practical, income-based, and avoids unfair burdens.
Rights and Obligations Regarding the Personal Contribution in The Hague
As a resident, you have rights:
- A decision within 6 weeks of application (Wmo Art. 1.2).
- Access to CAK data and the right to object to calculations; appeals can be filed with the District Court of The Hague.
- Exemption from payment if facing financial hardship, via the Municipality or special social assistance. Contact the Juridisch Loket Den Haag for help.
Your obligations include:
- Timely payment; the CAK may enforce collection if payments are delayed.
- Reporting changes in income.
- Using services appropriately; misuse may lead to suspension by the Municipality.
Disagree with the contribution? File an objection with the CAK within 6 weeks. For procedures, see objections and appeals in social security, including options via the District Court of The Hague.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Always Have to Pay a Personal Contribution in The Hague?
No. Exemptions apply for low-income households, children under 18, and specific services like medical aids. The Municipality may also grant reductions or waivers in exceptional cases.