Where to apply for social assistance in the Netherlands

Applications go to the municipality where you live

Each municipality sets its own first step. In some places you apply online with DigiD, in others you phone first, which can fix your application date, or sign up on werk.nl before an adviser contacts you. Offices also have their own help for people who find the form hard, and their own list of what to prepare.

2 offices in Rotterdam
  • Rotterdam

    Publiekslocatie Centrum — Gemeente Rotterdam

    Coolsingel 40, 3011 AD Rotterdam

    You can apply up to four weeks before your income ends, online with DigiD or with help if you call ahead.

    Prepare household and identity details, income, accounts, savings, debts and other assets, including foreign property and assets of resident children under 18. The ordinary 2026 asset limits are €8,000 for a single person and €16,000 for families/single parents; owner-occupied housing has separate rules. Upload the evidence requested in the application. Tell the municipality immediately if you cannot obtain something; extra time can delay the decision. Report changes promptly and do not assume a payment is approved.

  • Rotterdam

    Publiekslocatie IJsselmonde — Gemeente Rotterdam

    Herenwaard 23, 3078 AK Rotterdam

    Apply online with DigiD, or call to book a visit where someone helps you fill in the application.

    Prepare household and identity details, income, accounts, savings, debts and other assets, including foreign property and assets of resident children under 18. The ordinary 2026 asset limits are €8,000 for a single person and €16,000 for families/single parents; owner-occupied housing has separate rules. Upload the evidence requested in the application. Tell the municipality immediately if you cannot obtain something; extra time can delay the decision. Report changes promptly and do not assume a payment is approved.

Related services

Other everyday services in Netherlands

Other countries

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Where to next

Social assistance for basic living costs

See who can apply for income support, what a municipality takes into account and where to get advice if the application is difficult.

Social assistance in the Netherlands