Prior Provisions in Westland
Prior provisions include alternative sources of income, schemes or savings that residents of Westland must first utilise before claiming special assistance from the Municipality of Westland. The municipality thoroughly verifies this based on the subsidiarity principle to determine if these options can cover the costs.
Why These Provisions in Westland?
Within the Dutch social security system, including in Westland, government support is only provided after private and other resources have been exhausted. This subsidiarity principle ensures that special assistance – intended as a last resort for unexpected expenses – is only used when no alternatives exist. This promotes efficient use of public funds and encourages self-reliance, aligning with the Westland community's strong work ethic in horticulture.
For example, unexpected repairs to a company van for a grower in 's-Gravenzande. The Municipality of Westland first checks personal assets, possible loans or allowances. Only after exhausting these does special assistance become eligible. This article builds on our overview of special assistance in Westland.
Legal Basis
The foundation for prior provisions is Article 18, first paragraph, Participation Act: special assistance is denied if prior provisions are available. This includes:
- Allowances such as rent, healthcare or childcare allowance;
- Assets exceeding the exemption threshold (e.g. savings);
- Benefits (unemployment, disability) or local Westland schemes.
Article 4:23 of the General Administrative Law Act requires the municipality to act proportionately, prioritising alternatives. The Regulation on Individual Income Supplements and Special Assistance of the Municipality of Westland specifies these within the Participation Act.
Examples of Prior Provisions
In Westland, prior provisions depend on the case. Here's an overview:
| Category | Examples | When Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Income Schemes | Rent allowance, healthcare allowance, childcare allowance | If they (partly) cover the costs |
| Assets | Savings, investments (above €7,575 for singles, 2024) | Must be used first |
| Benefits | Unemployment (WW), welfare, state pension (AOW) | Available for the relevant expenses |
| Loans | Social loan via Municipality of Westland or Stimuleringsfonds | Required unless refused |
| Other | Insurance, employer or family support | If reasonably expected |
The asset threshold changes annually; it doubles for cohabiting partners.
Rights and Obligations Regarding Prior Provisions
Rights in Westland:
- The Municipality of Westland informs about relevant provisions and application procedures.
- Objection possible for incorrect assumptions (General Administrative Law Act art. 7:1), to be handled by the Westland District Court.
- Reasoning required if a provision is deemed unavailable.
Obligations:
- Provide proof of application and rejection (e.g. letter).
- Supply all information, or risk suspension.
- Cooperate with verification (Participation Act art. 65).
For free advice: call Het Juridisch Loket Westland.
Real-Life Cases from Westland
Case 1: Hearing Aid. Ms. De Jong from Naaldwijk applies for €1,500 in special assistance. Health insurance and allowance checked first; insufficient, savings below threshold. Approved.
Case 2: Funeral. Mr. Van der Meer from Monster for €3,000. No insurance, savings or family help expected. Approved by Municipality of Westland.
Case 3: School Costs. Smit family from Kwintsheul with €10,000 in savings: rejected, use assets first.
Always check the local regulation of the Municipality of Westland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if a provision is delayed?
In urgent need, Municipality of Westland may provide provisional assistance. Attach application proof.
Must savings always be disclosed?
Only above exemption: €7,575 (single, 2024), €15,140 (couple). Keep proof.
Objection to rejection?
Yes, within 6 weeks (General Administrative Law Act art. 6:7). Contact Het Juridisch Loket Westland or see objection and appeal.
Applies to minimum assistance?
No, this is for one-off; structural via welfare norm.
Tips for Westlanders
How to successfully obtain special assistance despite prior provisions:
- Document thoroughly: Keep all application forms, rejections and receipts.
- Consult Het Juridisch Loket Westland directly for guidance.
- Check the Municipality of Westland website for current rules.