Participation Act in The Hague: conditions for a benefit
In The Hague, the **Participation Act** regulates the conditions for a **social assistance benefit**. Read here about the requirements regarding income, assets and work obligation, plus local contact points such as the District Court The Hague (Prins Clauslaan 60) and Legal Aid Office The Hague (Lutherse Burgwal 10).
The **Participation Act** (since 2015) has replaced the **Work and Assistance Act** and sets conditions for financial assistance if you cannot (fully) work. In The Hague, the municipality provides activating support to find or retain work. Whether you receive a benefit depends on income, assets, age and work capacity.
Participation Act in The Hague
This act provides temporary assistance and stimulates return to work through:
- **Social assistance benefit** for those who do not receive unemployment benefit (WW), disability insurance (WIA) or state pension (AOW).
- **Participation benefit** for people with disabilities who can work partially.
- Activation such as job application guidance or retraining by the Hague municipality.
Benefits under the Participation Act
In The Hague, two main forms:
| Type | For whom | Amount (2024, The Hague) |
|---|---|---|
| Social assistance benefit | Without other benefits, limited ability to work. | €1,100-€1,500/month (depending on household and rent). |
| Participation benefit | With disability, partially able to work with assistance. | €1,300-€1,800/month, incl. wage cost subsidy. |
Conditions for benefit in The Hague
For social assistance, personal and financial requirements must be met.
1. Personal conditions
- Age: From 18 years; 18-27 year olds must first seek work or study.
- Place of residence: Registered in The Hague (BRP).
- Work capacity:
- Social assistance: Max. 12 hours/week work at low income.
- Participation: Partially work with adaptations.
- No other benefits: No unemployment benefit (WW), disability insurance (WIA), state pension (AOW) or partner supplement.
2. Financial conditions
The Municipality of The Hague checks:
- Income:
- Gross income below norm; max. €110/month (2024) without reduction of benefit.
- Assets below €7,575 (single) or €15,140 (together).
- Housing costs: Rent allowance possible; other costs included.
Application in The Hague
Submit application to **Municipality of The Hague, Work and Income** (Spuiplein 75). Bring ID, bank statements and rental agreement. For objection: **District Court The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60** or free advice via **Legal Aid Office The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10**.
Obligations
- Actively apply for jobs (min. 2x/week).
- Report changes (income, residence).
- Follow municipality trajectories.
Check your entitlement at denhaag.nl.