Social Assistance Norms in Leiden
The amount of your social assistance benefit in Leiden is determined by your age, family situation and living conditions. These amounts are based on the minimum wage and are revised twice a year.
Social Assistance Amounts 2024
| Situation | Net per month (estimate) |
|---|---|
| Single (21 years and older) | ±€1.200 |
| Single parent (21+) | ±€1.200 |
| Cohabiting or married (total) | ±€1.710 |
| 21 to 27 years | Reduced youth norm |
| 18 to 20 years | Extra reduced norm |
Cost-Sharing Rule in Leiden
Important: Cost-Sharing Norm
Do you share your home with other adults (other than your partner)? Then the cost-sharing norm is applied:
- More adults in the house means a lower benefit
- The reason: shared living costs
- Children from 21 years old living at home also count
What does social assistance cover?
The social assistance benefit in Leiden is intended for essential costs such as:
- Rent or mortgage payments
- Energy and water
- Food and drink
- Clothing and shoes
- Insurance premiums
- Other necessary expenses
Supplementary Allowances
In addition to social assistance, you may be eligible in Leiden for:
- Rent allowance
- Healthcare allowance
- Child-related budget
- Childcare allowance (if working or in reintegration trajectory)
Holiday Pay with Social Assistance
You receive holiday pay amounting to 5% of your benefit, which is usually paid out in May or June.
Is social assistance net or gross?
The amounts mentioned are net. Social assistance is exempt from tax.
Do I get extra social assistance for children?
No, but you can apply for child benefit and child-related budget.
What if my rent is too high for social assistance?
Apply for rent allowance via the Tax Authorities and inquire with the municipality of Leiden about exceptional assistance for high housing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Social Assistance in Leiden
Who is eligible for unemployment benefit?
You are entitled to unemployment benefit if you are unemployed, have paid premiums and are registered with the UWV.
How long do I receive unemployment benefit?
The duration depends on your employment history and varies between 3 months and 38 weeks.
What is social assistance?
Social assistance is financial support from the municipality of Leiden for people who do not have enough income to provide for their livelihood.
How can I apply for social assistance in Leiden?
You can apply for social assistance via the municipality of Leiden. Submit proof of income, housing costs and other relevant documents.
Do I have to apply for jobs during a benefit?
Yes, with an unemployment benefit you are obliged to actively seek work and demonstrate this to the UWV.
Contact and Support in Leiden
For legal questions about social assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. For matters that go to court, you may be referred to the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location.