The Bbz (Decree on Welfare for Self-Employed Persons) provides financial assistance to self-employed entrepreneurs in Zoetermeer who are in financial distress. This can be a benefit for living expenses or a loan for business purposes.
What does the Bbz entail?
The Bbz is a support scheme for self-employed individuals in Zoetermeer with an income too low to make ends meet. The scheme offers various forms of assistance:
- Monthly benefit for living expenses
- Business loan with interest
- Start-up credit for new entrepreneurs
Who is eligible for Bbz?
| Target group | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Existing self-employed | At least 1,225 hours per year active, business must be viable |
| Starting entrepreneurs | Within 36 months after start, with a feasible business plan |
| Older entrepreneurs | 55 years or older who are ceasing (alternative: IOAZ) |
| Ceasing self-employed | Who are in financial difficulties |
Bbz benefit for living expenses
If your income is temporarily below the minimum:
- Supplement to the welfare norm
- Initially disbursed as a loan
- Final settlement at the end of the year
- Received too much = repay
- Received too little = additional payment
Business loan via Bbz
A credit for essential investments:
- Maximum € 212,954 (2024)
- Interest rate: 8% per year
- Repayment term: up to 10 years
- Business must have future prospects
How do I apply for Bbz in Zoetermeer?
The application for Bbz is submitted to the municipality of Zoetermeer. Ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Business plan or financial annual statements
- Projections for the coming year
- Overview of personal and business finances
Frequently asked questions about Bbz in Zoetermeer
Is the Bbz benefit a gift or a loan?
The benefit for living expenses starts as a loan. After the year, it is assessed whether it becomes a gift or whether you must repay (part of) it, depending on your income.
Can I apply for Bbz as a starting entrepreneur?
Yes, within 36 months after the start of your business, you can apply for Bbz in Zoetermeer, provided you have a solid business plan.
What is meant by a 'viable' business?
A viable business is an enterprise that can generate sufficient income in the short term to support the entrepreneur.
Additional questions about Bbz
How high is the Bbz benefit?
The benefit supplements up to the social minimum, depending on your situation (e.g., single or with partner). The amount depends on the welfare norm in Zoetermeer and is initially provided as a loan.
What if I receive too much Bbz?
At the end of the year, a recalculation follows. Overpaid amounts must be repaid, possibly in instalments. Report changes in income directly to the municipality.
Can I get Bbz in case of loss in my business?
Yes, provided your business is viable. You must demonstrate this with a plan or forecast. In case of persistent loss without prospects, Bbz may be refused.
How long does a Bbz application take in Zoetermeer?
The municipality has 8 weeks to decide, but this may be extended if documents are missing. Submit everything immediately to avoid delays. In urgent cases, a faster decision may follow.
Do I have to stop my business for Bbz?
No, Bbz supports entrepreneurs with temporary problems and a viable business. For those aged 55+ who are ceasing, the IOAZ scheme is an option.
Can Bbz be combined with other support?
Yes, sometimes Bbz can be combined with allowances such as rent or healthcare allowance. However, Bbz income counts towards other benefits. Consult the municipality of Zoetermeer.
What does Bbz mean for my taxes?
The Bbz benefit for living expenses has tax implications. Contact the Tax Authorities or the municipality for specific details.