Benefit for older and partially disabled self-employed persons (IOAZ).

How does it work?

You can claim IOAZ benefits if your business does not bring in enough to live on. In addition, the following Requirements apply:

1. You are 55 or older, but you have not yet reached the state pension age.
2. You have an employment history. This means that you have been self-employed for at least 10 years, or you have been self-employed in your own business for the last 3 years and before that, you worked as an employee for 7 years.
3. You worked 1,225 hours or more per year in your own business. This is an average of about 24 hours per week. If your partner also participated in the business, you must have worked at least 875 hours per year and your partner must have worked at least 525 hours.
4. The income (profit) from your business has been less than €23,444.00 gross average per year for the last 3 years. Income includes any other income. Your partner's income is also included in the income. This only applies if your partner cooperates in the business and receives a cooperative allowance or a profit share. Your partner's other income, such as salary or unemployment benefit, does not count.
5. For the future, you expect an income of less than €24,326.00 gross per year. The municipality will investigate this.
6. The application must have been filed before the termination of your occupation or business. The termination must occur within 1½ years of the application. This provision may not be waived. An application made only after termination of the business must be rejected.

When receiving IOAZ benefits, you (and your partner, if any) must cease self-employment. You or your partner may not resume the business or profession or start a new business.

Important : The application must have been submitted before the termination your occupation or business. An application made only after the cessation of the business must be rejected.

What to do?

Applying for IOAZ benefits is done through the Social Entrepreneur's Office (SOLO).

Your notification automatically arrives at the municipality. You will be notified automatically whether you will receive the benefit. Submit your application before you stop working as a self-employed person. You must have stopped working as a self-employed person within 1½ years of your application.

What should I bring?

In addition to a valid identification document (including that of your partner, if any), you must submit all information related to your business and your possible disability.

How long does it take?

After making the application, you will receive written notification from the municipality within 8 weeks.