Social Assistance and Cohabitation in Zoetermeer
If you live in Zoetermeer and cohabit, this may affect your social assistance benefit. The Municipality of Zoetermeer assesses the income and assets of all members of your household. This may result in a lower benefit or complete loss of your entitlement to social assistance.
When Are You Considered Cohabiting?
| Situation | Cohabiting? | Impact on Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Married or registered partnership | Yes | Joint norm |
| Cohabiting with a partner | Yes | Joint norm |
| Living with family | Cost-sharing norm | Reduced benefit |
| Living with a housemate (not a partner) | Cost-sharing norm | Reduced benefit |
What Does a Joint Household Mean?
The Municipality of Zoetermeer investigates whether there is a joint household based on criteria such as:
- Are you registered at the same address?
- Do you share financial expenses such as rent or groceries?
- Do you have children together?
- Have you been married in the past?
- Do you provide for each other's care?
What Is the Cost-Sharing Norm?
The Cost-Sharing Norm Explained
If you cohabit with other adults, your social assistance is reduced:
- 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 in the case of:
- Students with student finance
- Young people under 21 years of age
- Room rental on a commercial basis
- Specific care needs
Checks and Fraud in Zoetermeer
The Municipality of Zoetermeer conducts checks to verify whether the reported situation is correct:
- Home visits
- Administrative checks
- Cross-checks with other authorities
- Strict approach to fraud involving cohabitation
Do I Have a LAT Relationship. Does This Count as Cohabiting?
No, if you do not live at the same address and do not run a joint household, this is not considered cohabitation by the municipality.
My Adult Child Lives at Home. What Are the Consequences?
A child aged 21 or older counts towards the cost-sharing norm, unless it is a student with student finance.
What If I Start Cohabiting With Someone Who Has Income?
Your social assistance benefit may be reduced or terminated if the total household income exceeds the norm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Assistance in Zoetermeer
Who can apply for unemployment benefits?
If you are unemployed, have paid premiums, and are registered with the UWV, you can apply for unemployment benefits.
What is the duration of unemployment benefits?
The duration 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 for residents of Zoetermeer who do not have sufficient income to provide for their livelihood.
How can I apply for social assistance in Zoetermeer?
You can apply for social assistance via the Municipality of Zoetermeer. You must demonstrate your personal and financial situation.
Do I have to apply for jobs during a benefit period?
Yes, with unemployment benefits you are obliged to actively seek work and report this to the UWV.