What Does Special Assistance Entail?
Special assistance is financial support from the Municipality of Westland for unexpected, necessary expenditures that you cannot bear yourself. This concerns costs that fall outside your regular income or benefit.
What Can You Apply Special Assistance For?
| Type of Costs | Examples |
|---|---|
| Housing | Extra heating costs, necessary home furnishing |
| Health | Medical co-payments, costs for glasses or hearing aids |
| Legal Aid | Costs for a lawyer, legal assistance |
| Children | School supplies, layette for a newborn child |
| Financial Management | Costs for guardianship or administrative support |
Conditions for Special Assistance
- You reside in the Municipality of Westland
- The costs are essential and unavoidable
- You are unable to pay them yourself
- There is no other scheme that covers the costs
- Your assets are below the established threshold
How Do You Apply for This?
Step-by-Step Plan
- Contact the Municipality of Westland
- Indicate why you need special assistance
- Include supporting evidence, such as invoices or quotes
- The municipality investigates whether the costs are necessary
- Expect a decision within approximately 8 weeks
How Much Will You Receive?
The amount of support varies:
- In many cases: full coverage of necessary expenditures
- Sometimes: a partial reimbursement
- In certain situations: a loan instead of a grant
- Policy may vary per municipality, such as Westland
Other Options First
Special assistance is only granted if other options are not possible:
- Health insurance schemes
- Tax credits
- Social Support Act (Wmo)
- Other support schemes
I Work, But Earn Little. Am I Eligible?
Yes, special assistance is not exclusive to benefit recipients. Working individuals with low income can also submit an application.
Is Special Assistance Possible for Debts?
In most cases no, because debts are not considered special costs. However, you can seek help through debt counselling in Westland.
Is the Amount Always Paid Out to Me?
Not always. Sometimes the municipality pays directly to the provider, for example for home furnishing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Special Assistance
Which costs are covered under special assistance in Westland?
It concerns necessary, unexpected expenditures such as high energy costs, medical contributions (e.g. for glasses), legal support, school supplies or baby essentials. Ordinary costs such as rent or groceries are not covered, nor are debts or costs that can be reimbursed through other schemes.
How long does a decision on my application take?
The Municipality of Westland usually decides within 8 weeks. In complex cases, this may take longer, but you will be informed. Submit all documents immediately to avoid delays. In urgent cases, you can request faster processing.
What if my savings are just above the threshold?
If your assets are slightly above the limit, you may still receive help, often in the form of a loan. The municipality assesses whether you truly cannot bear the costs yourself. Discuss this with a municipality employee.
Can I get help for a used washing machine or refrigerator?
Yes, this is possible if it is a necessary purchase and you cannot afford it yourself. Contact the municipality for the specific conditions.