The IOAZ (Income Provision for Older and Partially Disabled Self-Employed Persons) provides financial support to older entrepreneurs in Leiden who have been forced to cease their business. Your assets are not taken into account in this regard.
What does the IOAZ entail?
The IOAZ supports self-employed entrepreneurs in Leiden who meet the following criteria:
- Being at least 55 years old (or partially disabled for work)
- Having ceased their business or planning to do so
- Having been a self-employed entrepreneur for at least 10 years (or 3 of the last 5 years)
- Having an income lower than the social minimum
Conditions for IOAZ in Leiden
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Age requirement | 55 years or older (or partially disabled for work) |
| Entrepreneurial experience | Worked at least 1,225 hours per year as self-employed |
| Period as entrepreneur | 10 years or 3 years in the last 5 years |
| Cessation of business | Business (almost) ceased due to insufficient income |
| Income threshold | Expected income is below the social minimum |
Why choose IOAZ over social assistance?
- No asset check: savings and home ownership are disregarded
- Business proceeds: income from the sale of your business does not need to be spent
- Pension scheme: segregated pension assets are not taken into account
Amount of the IOAZ benefit
In Leiden, the IOAZ supplements your income up to the social assistance norm:
- Single: €1,281 net per month (2024)
- Cohabiting/married: €1,830 net per month jointly
How to apply for IOAZ in Leiden?
The IOAZ application must be submitted to the municipality of Leiden, ideally before the cessation of your business. Required documents include, among others:
- Financial statements for the past 3 years
- Proof or plan of business cessation
- Registration with the Chamber of Commerce (extract)
Contact and support in Leiden
For help with your application or questions, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles any legal disputes regarding IOAZ benefits.
Frequently asked questions about IOAZ in Leiden
Can I apply for IOAZ while my business is still active?
Yes, in Leiden you can apply for IOAZ up to 18 months before the expected cessation. This is recommended for a seamless transition.
Is the proceeds from my business sale taken into account?
No, under the IOAZ in Leiden, your assets play no role. You do not need to spend the proceeds from the sale first.
Am I required to job search while receiving IOAZ?
Yes, also in Leiden, you must actively seek work and cooperate with reintegration activities while receiving IOAZ.