The Landelijk Bureau Inning Onderhoudsbijdragen (LBIO) assists in collecting maintenance if the maintenance obligor does not voluntarily proceed to payment. For residents of Zoetermeer, this service is free of charge for the maintenance entitled party.
What is the role of the LBIO?
The LBIO takes over the collection of maintenance when the maintenance obligor does not pay, or only pays partially. The bureau has extensive powers to enforce payment, also in the Zoetermeer region.
How do I engage the LBIO?
The LBIO can be engaged under the following conditions:
- There is an official judicial decision or notarial agreement regarding maintenance.
- The maintenance obligor does not pay, does not pay in full, or pays late.
- There is a minimum arrears of €10 or one instalment has not been paid.
Powers of the LBIO
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Wage garnishment | The employer deducts maintenance directly from the wages. |
| Garnishment on benefits | Agencies such as UWV or municipality pay a portion of the benefit to the LBIO. |
| Garnishment on bank account | Funds are transferred directly to the LBIO. |
| Garnishment on assets | Goods can be sold to settle the debt. |
| Seizure of driving licence | In case of persistent non-payment (possible since 2020). |
Costs for maintenance collection
For the maintenance entitled party in Zoetermeer, the services of the LBIO are completely free. The costs are recovered from the maintenance obligor and include:
- One-time setup costs based on the arrears.
- Monthly costs for collection and debt recovery.
- Costs for a bailiff if necessary.
Step-by-step plan for engagement
- Register via the website lbio.nl with a copy of the judicial decision or deed.
- The LBIO sends a payment request to the maintenance obligor.
- If payment does not follow, garnishment measures are taken.
- The LBIO collects the amounts and transfers them to you monthly.
My ex-partner lives abroad, can the LBIO help?
The LBIO can also collect maintenance outside the Netherlands, especially within the EU. However, this process is more time-consuming and complex. Outside the EU, it depends on international agreements and local rules.Can I engage a bailiff myself instead of the LBIO?
Yes, that is possible. However, the LBIO has the advantage that it is free for you and specialised in maintenance cases. With a bailiff, you often have to advance costs yourself.How long does the process via the LBIO take?
After registration, the maintenance obligor receives a summons from the LBIO within a few weeks. If there is no response, garnishment measures follow. The total duration depends on the financial situation of the maintenance obligor and whether garnishment is possible.Frequently asked questions about maintenance in Zoetermeer
How can I register my ex-partner with the LBIO for overdue maintenance?
You can register via lbio.nl with a copy of the judicial decision or notarial deed. Provide proof of the arrears, such as bank statements. The LBIO will contact your ex-partner. This process usually takes a few weeks. Keep details such as address and workplace of the maintenance obligor at hand.
What if my ex-partner has no job or income?
The LBIO can garnish benefits such as unemployment benefits or social assistance. If that is not possible, assets or property are considered. In case of persistent non-payment, the driving licence can even be seized. The LBIO always first investigates all options.
Can the LBIO help if my ex-partner resides abroad?
Yes, although this process is more complex. Within the EU, the LBIO collaborates with local authorities. Outside the EU, success depends on treaties. The LBIO can advise you on the feasibility in your situation.
Are there costs involved in engaging the LBIO?
No, for the maintenance entitled party in Zoetermeer, the service is free. All costs are recovered from the maintenance obligor, including setup and collection costs. This makes the LBIO a cost-effective option compared to a private bailiff.
How quickly do I receive maintenance after registering with the LBIO?
After registration, the LBIO sends a payment request within a few weeks. If there is no response, garnishment measures follow. With wage garnishment, you often receive the first payment within 4-8 weeks. Complex cases, such as residence abroad, may take longer.
What if the LBIO cannot collect the maintenance?
If the LBIO achieves no result, you can engage a bailiff yourself, but this incurs costs. Additionally, you can approach the District Court of The Hague, under which Zoetermeer falls, for a review of the maintenance arrangement.
Help in Zoetermeer
For legal advice, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. Maintenance cases fall under the District Court of The Hague, the district for Zoetermeer.