Assistance for the self-employed

Sometimes you can apply for assistance as a self-employed person. For example, if you want to start your own company from benefits or if your company is temporarily experiencing financial problems. Have you just started as an entrepreneur? We will support you if you are unable to earn a (minimum) income. You can apply for this under the Bbz scheme ( Besluit bijstandverlening zelfstandigen 2004).

Were you born after January 1, 1960 or older than 55? Then you may be eligible for the Ioaz benefit . Ioaz stands for Income Provision Act for Older and Partially Disabled Former Self-Employed Persons. 

With a Bbz or Ioaz benefit you can continue to pay your living expenses. You can also get a loan for investments in your company.

The municipality of Zoetermeer works together with the Regional Self-Employed Office (RBZ) of the municipality of Rotterdam. The RBZ carries out the Bbz and the Ioaz for the municipality of Zoetermeer.

Before submitting an application, please visit the website www.krijgikbbz.nl You can see immediately whether you may be eligible for Bbz.

What you need to know

The Bbz and the Ioaz law are there to help:

  • If you start as a self-employed person.
  • If you are self-employed and have financial problems.
  • If you are self-employed and want to stop doing so.
  • If you are thinking of closing down your business because you are not getting enough income from your business.

Supplement to social assistance level

With a Bbz benefit you can supplement your (family) income up to the social assistance level . The amount you receive depends on your income and the income of your partner. The amount also depends on your living situation. For example, whether you form a household with multiple people. The municipality also takes into account your financial situation, such as your housing costs.

Working capital Bbz

In certain cases you may be eligible for working capital . This is a loan or a gift, depending on your assets. This allows you to invest in your company. 

Apply

  • You can apply for assistance via an application form on the website of the Regional Self-Employed Office (RBZ).
  • By answering a few questions, you will immediately see whether you can apply for an online Bbz application or whether a conversation with an RBZ employee is required first. This applies, for example, to entrepreneurs who want to stop or entrepreneurs who want to apply for working capital.

What do you need for the application?

  • A DigiD login code (you are required to log in with DigiD).
  • Do you have a partner? They must declare that they also agree to all the conditions of the Bbz benefit. The benefit is awarded to both of you and must be declared on your tax return.

Evidence

The documents you need depend on your situation. The Regional Self-Employed Office (RBZ) can provide you with more information about this.

Questions?

Do you have any questions? Or would you like more information? Please contact the Regional Self-Employed Office (RBZ) .

How long will it take?

For a simple application, you will receive a decision within 13 weeks. Sometimes additional research is required. If more research is required, the processing of the application will take longer. In that case, you may receive an advance. You will be notified when you receive an advance.

Objecting

Do you disagree with the decision of the municipality? You can object within 6 weeks of the date on the decision. 

Useful links

Still need advice?