In addition to income, a strict asset limit applies for social assistance. In 2024, a single person may possess a maximum of €7,575, a couple €15,150. Saving above this limit? Then social assistance will be refused or terminated. Assets include savings, investments, second homes, and crypto, but the primary residence and household effects remain exempt up to €58,000 per person.
The Social Assistance Act (Wet werk en bijstand (WWB)), article 31, requires an 'asset income supplement': savings above the exemption are considered fictitious income (up to 4% yield). For those aged 65 and over, a higher exemption of €66,050 applies. Municipalities may deviate in cases of exceptional costs, such as medical debts.
Upon application, you must declare everything; the Tax Authorities share data. Concealing assets is fraud, punishable by fines up to €11,760 or even imprisonment. Tip: use up the assets first before applying for social assistance. For AOW recipients, more lenient rules apply via the IOAW. Check your situation using your municipality's digital social assistance calculator.