Assistance for the self-employed

What is it?

Sometimes you can apply for assistance as a self-employed person. For example, if you want to start a business or if your business has financial problems. You can then apply for assistance under the Besluit bijstandverlening zelfstandigen (Bbz).

With a BBZ benefit, you can continue to pay your living expenses. You can also get a loan for investments in your business.

How does it work?

Exactly what assistance you get depends on your situation. Below is what assistance you can get for each situation.

You have Social assistance benefit benefits or unemployment benefits and want to start your own business

  • A loan for preparation costs, such as making a business plan (you don't have to pay this back if you don't start your own business);
  • A loan to invest in your business;
  • A lower unemployment benefit or 12 months retention of your Social assistance benefit.

Your own business has financial problems

  • A BBZ benefit so you can continue to pay your living expenses;
  • A loan to invest in your business;
  • An amount you do not have to repay.

You want to quit your own business because it is not viable

  • A BBZ benefit so you can continue to pay your living expenses.

You are over 55 and your own business is not viable

  • A BBZ benefit so you can continue to pay your living expenses;
  • A loan to invest in your business (you do not always have to pay this amount back).

What to do?

Applying for assistance or credit is done through the Social Entrepreneur's Office Online (SOLO).

Your report automatically arrives at the municipality. An employee of the municipality will then contact you.

If you are an entrepreneur in inland navigation, you can apply to the center municipality where you reside at the time of application (Groningen, Amsterdam, Zwolle, Nijmegen, Nieuwegein, Rotterdam, Terneuzen, Geertruidenberg or Maasbracht (municipality of Maasgouw)).

What do I need?

Which documents you need depends on your situation. Some documents you will need in any case:

  • identity documents of you and possibly your partner and family members
  • proof of citizen service number of you and possibly your partner and family members
  • fully completed and signed application form
  • information form with required supporting documents
  • evidence about your income, assets and debts
  • business plan (if you want to start your own business)

Do you own a business with financial problems or that is not viable? Then you usually also need the following documents:

  • annual figures for the last 3 years
  • the latest income tax return
  • a forecast for the coming years
  • evidence of rejections on applications for financing by banks
  • an overview of debtors and creditors

How long does it take?

Within 13 weeks, you will be notified whether you will receive assistance.

Objecting

If you disagree with the municipality's decision, you can object within 6 weeks.