Personal Contribution (Eigen Bijdrage) under the Wmo in Leiden
The personal contribution (eigen bijdrage) under the Wmo is the amount residents of Leiden must pay for support provided under the Social Support Act (Wet maatschappelijke ondersteuning, Wmo). This system ensures fair cost-sharing based on income and assets, with a fixed annual cap to prevent unexpected high expenses. Collection is handled by the Central Administration Office (Centraal Administratie Kantoor, CAK). This article explains how it works for Leiden residents, including local examples and advice on contacting the Municipality of Leiden.
What is the Personal Contribution under the Wmo in Leiden?
The Wmo assists Leiden residents facing daily life limitations, such as cleaning support, home adaptations, or transportation. Not all services are free; the Municipality of Leiden may request a personal contribution to maintain societal solidarity and reduce pressure on public finances. For specific support in Leiden, residents can turn to the Municipality’s service desk or Leiden Legal Helpdesk (Het Juridisch Loket Leiden) for free advice.
The contribution applies to most Wmo services but not to medical aids or protected housing. The rate depends on income, with an annual cap. In 2024, the monthly cap is **€20.07**, with an annual maximum of **€2,640**. This amount is adjusted yearly. If multiple services are used in Leiden—such as care and a wheelchair—they all count toward the maximum.
Legal Basis of the Personal Contribution under the Wmo
The personal contribution under the Wmo is governed by the Social Support Act 2015 (Wmo 2015). Key provisions include:
- Article 6.1 Wmo 2015: Authorizes the Municipality of Leiden to impose a contribution for Wmo services.
- Article 6.2 Wmo 2015: Ensures the contribution is reasonable and does not exceed costs.
- Regulation on Personal Contribution under the Wmo 2015: Specifies exact rates, exemptions, and collection methods. The CAK enforces collection under the Central Administration Office Act (Wcak).
The Municipality of Leiden decides on service allocation, while the CAK determines and collects the contribution. For broader context, see CAK and personal contributions in healthcare, focusing on its national role.
How Is the Personal Contribution Calculated in Leiden?
The calculation is based on individual circumstances and straightforward to follow. The CAK retrieves income and asset data from the Dutch Tax Authority. A standard monthly rate applies, which may be lower for low-income earners.
- Step 1: Income Assessment. The CAK reviews your assessable income (gross minus exemptions) from two years prior.
- Step 2: Asset Test. Assets exceeding **€33,748 (2024)** may increase the contribution, but never beyond the annual cap.
- Step 3: Apply the Annual Maximum. Regardless of the number of services used in Leiden, you pay a maximum of **€2,640 per year**.
Minors under 18 are exempt. For cohabiting partners in Leiden sharing a service, the contribution is assessed jointly.
Comparison with Other Schemes
For clarity, a comparison of the Wmo contribution with other systems:
| Scheme | Monthly Maximum (2024) | Annual Maximum | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wmo | €20.07 | €2,640 | Home care and adaptations in Leiden |
| Wlz (Long-Term Care Act) | €20.07 | €2,640 | Institutional care |
| Deductible (Eigen Risico) | Up to €385 (variable) | No fixed cap | Health insurance |
The Wmo contribution in Leiden remains limited and predictable, unlike the deductible in health insurance.
Practical Examples for Leiden
Consider a 65-year-old Leiden resident receiving AOW (state pension) and a small private pension, applying for domestic help. With an annual income of **€25,000**, they receive **4 hours of weekly support** and pay **€20.07/month**, capped at **€2,640/year**. Adding a stairlift for their inner-city home remains within the same limit.
Or a single parent in Leiden with two young children needing day activities. They pay the maximum contribution, but childcare support is free. For low-income households (e.g., social assistance recipients), the Municipality of Leiden may reduce or waive the contribution via extraordinary assistance (bijzondere bijstand).
These examples illustrate how the contribution in Leiden is practical and income-sensitive.
Rights and Obligations Regarding the Personal Contribution in Leiden
As a Leiden resident receiving services, you have rights:
- A decision within **6 weeks** of application (Wmo Art. 1.2) from the Municipality of Leiden.
- Access to CAK data and the right to object to calculations; appeals go to the **District Court of Leiden (Rechtbank Leiden)**.
- Possible waiver if payment is difficult—apply through the Municipality of Leiden or Leiden Legal Helpdesk.
Your obligations include:
- Pay on time; the CAK enforces overdue payments.
- Report income changes promptly to the CAK.
- Use services correctly; misuse may lead to service termination by the Municipality of Leiden.
Disagree with the contribution? File an objection with the CAK within **6 weeks**. For procedures, see objections and appeals in social security, with local support via the Leiden Legal Helpdesk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always have to pay a personal contribution as a Leiden resident?
No, depending on your income and the service, the rate may be lower or even zero. Contact the Municipality of Leiden for a personalized assessment.