The IOAW (Income Provision for Older and Partially Work-Disabled Unemployed Workers) provides financial support to older unemployed in Zoetermeer who no longer receive WW benefits. Unlike social assistance, your assets do not play a role here.
What is the IOAW?
The IOAW supports workers who meet the following criteria:
- Born before 1 January 1965
- Became unemployed after their 50th birthday
- No longer entitled to WW benefits
- Have not yet reached AOW age
IOAW versus social assistance
| Criterion | IOAW | Social assistance |
|---|---|---|
| Assets test | Not applicable | Applicable |
| Owner-occupied home | Not taken into account | Taken into account above exemption |
| Savings | No influence | Must deplete above exemption |
| Benefit amount | Equal to social assistance | Equal to IOAW |
| Job application obligation | Yes | Yes |
Amount of the IOAW benefit
The IOAW benefit corresponds to the social assistance norms:
- Single: € 1,281 net per month (2024)
- Single parent: € 1,281 net per month
- Co-habiting/married: € 1,830 net per month combined
Any income from yourself or your partner is deducted from this amount.
Conditions for IOAW in Zoetermeer
- You were born before 1 January 1965
- You became unemployed after your 50th birthday
- Your WW entitlements are exhausted
- You have not yet reached AOW age
- You reside in the Netherlands, for example in Zoetermeer
Frequently asked questions about IOAW
Do I have to deplete my savings for an IOAW benefit?
No, the IOAW does not take your assets into account. Therefore, you do not need to use your savings or owner-occupied home.
Am I required to apply for jobs with an IOAW benefit?
Yes, even with an IOAW benefit, you are required to actively seek work and cooperate in reintegration programmes.
Can I apply for IOAW during my WW benefit?
No, you can only apply for IOAW after your WW benefit has ended. Ideally, submit your application 4 weeks before the end of your WW.
Additional questions and answers
Who qualifies for an IOAW benefit in Zoetermeer?
You qualify if you were born before 1 January 1965, became unemployed after your 50th birthday, no longer receive WW, have not yet reached AOW age, and reside in the Netherlands, such as in Zoetermeer. This benefit targets older unemployed who are without income after their WW period.
How do I apply for IOAW and what is the processing time?
The IOAW application is submitted via the Social Insurance Bank (SVB). It is advisable to do this four weeks before the end of your WW. The SVB processes your request and provides a decision within approximately 8 weeks. Ensure you have relevant documents such as your WW decision and ID at hand.
Does my partner's income count towards the IOAW?
Yes, your partner's income, such as salary or pension, is deducted from your IOAW benefit. However, your partner's assets have no influence, as the IOAW does not apply an assets test, unlike social assistance.
What if I find work while receiving IOAW?
If you find a job, you must report this immediately to the SVB. Depending on your new income, your IOAW will be adjusted or terminated. In employment, you may build up WW entitlements again. If you work less than 12 hours per week, you may sometimes retain a partial benefit.
Can I receive IOAW with an owner-occupied home in Zoetermeer?
Yes, owning a home is no obstacle to IOAW. Unlike social assistance, your home is not taken into account, so you do not need to sell or use your home to receive the benefit.
What to do if my IOAW application is rejected?
If rejected, you receive a decision with explanation from the SVB. You can lodge an objection within six weeks. State in your objection why you disagree. Consider legal assistance, for example via the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer.
How long do I receive IOAW?
You can receive IOAW until your AOW age. The benefit stops automatically in the month you become entitled to AOW. As long as you meet the conditions, such as the job application obligation, there is no time limit.
Contact and support in Zoetermeer
For help with your application or legal questions, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. Additionally, Zoetermeer falls under the District Court of The Hague for any disputes.