Social Assistance and Cohabitation in Westland
If you cohabit in Westland, this affects your social assistance benefit. The municipality assesses the income and assets of all members of your household. This may result in a lower benefit or complete loss of your social assistance.
When Are You Considered Cohabiting?
| Situation | Cohabiting? | Effect on Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Married or registered partnership | Yes | Joint benefit |
| Cohabiting with a partner | Yes | Joint benefit |
| Living with parents | Cost-sharing norm | Reduced benefit |
| With a housemate (not a partner) | Cost-sharing norm | Reduced benefit |
What Constitutes a Joint Household?
In Westland, the municipality determines whether there is a joint household based on criteria such as:
- Do you share the same residential address?
- Do you share household expenses (such as rent or groceries)?
- Do you have children together?
- Have you been married in the past?
- Do you provide care for each other?
Cost-Sharing Norm in Westland
How Is the Cost-Sharing Norm Applied?
Your benefit is reduced depending on the number of adults living in the household:
- 2 adults: 50% of the married norm per person
- 3 adults: 43% per person
- 4 adults: 40% per person
- And so on
Exceptions to the Cost-Sharing Norm
In some cases, the cost-sharing norm does not apply, for example for:
- Students with student finance
- Young people under 21 years of age
- Commercial rental of a room
- Specific care circumstances
Checks and Fraud Prevention
The Municipality of Westland conducts checks to verify whether the reported situation is accurate:
- Home visits
- Verification of financial data
- Cross-checks with other authorities
- Strict approach to fraud involving cohabitation
Do I Have a Cohabitation Situation in a LAT Relationship?
No, if you live at separate addresses and do not maintain a shared household, you are not considered cohabiting.
My Adult Child Lives at Home. What Are the Consequences?
A child aged 21 or older counts towards the cost-sharing norm, unless they are a student with student finance.
What If I Start Cohabiting with Someone Who Has Income?
Your social assistance may be reduced or terminated if the total household income exceeds the norm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Assistance in Westland
Who is eligible for unemployment benefits?
If you are unemployed, have paid premiums, and are registered with the UWV, you may be entitled to unemployment benefits.
How long do I receive unemployment benefits?
This depends on your employment history and varies between 3 months and 38 weeks.
What does social assistance entail?
Social assistance is financial support from the Municipality of Westland for people who do not have sufficient income to provide for their livelihood.
How can I apply for social assistance in Westland?
You can apply for social assistance via the Municipality of Westland by explaining your personal and financial situation and demonstrating that you have insufficient income.
Do I have to apply for jobs while receiving benefits?
Yes, if you receive unemployment benefits, you are obliged to actively seek work and demonstrate this to the UWV.