The Bbz (Besluit bijstandverlening zelfstandigen) provides financial assistance to self-employed entrepreneurs in Utrecht who are in financial distress. You can apply for a temporary livelihood benefit or obtain a loan for your business.
What does the Bbz entail?
The Bbz is a support scheme for self-employed individuals in Utrecht with an income too low to make ends meet. The scheme offers various options:
- A periodic benefit for your livelihood
- A loan for working capital (with interest)
- A credit for starters in the preparation phase
Who is the Bbz intended for?
| Target group | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Experienced self-employed individuals | At least 1,225 hours per year active, business must be viable |
| Starting entrepreneurs | Within 36 months after establishment, with a solid business plan |
| Older entrepreneurs | 55 years or older who are ceasing their business (alternative: IOAZ) |
| Self-employed individuals ceasing operations | Who have encountered financial problems |
Livelihood benefit via Bbz
If your income is temporarily below the social minimum:
- Supplement to the benefit norm
- First disbursed as a loan
- End of year: final settlement
- Received too much = repayment
- Received too little = additional payment
Working capital via Bbz
A loan for essential investments in your business:
- Maximum € 212,954 (as of 2024)
- Interest rate: 8% annually
- Repayment term: up to 10 years
- Business must have future prospects
How to apply for Bbz in Utrecht?
The Bbz application is submitted to the Municipality of Utrecht. Ensure you have the following ready:
- A business plan or recent annual accounts
- A financial forecast for the coming year
- An overview of both business and private finances
Frequently asked questions about Bbz in Utrecht
Is the Bbz benefit a gift or a loan?
The livelihood benefit starts as a loan. At the end of the year, it is determined whether it becomes a gift or whether you must repay (part of) it, depending on your income.
Can I apply for Bbz as a starting entrepreneur?
Yes, within 36 months after starting your business, you can apply for Bbz in Utrecht, provided you have a viable plan.
What is meant by a 'viable' business?
A business is viable if it can generate sufficient income in the short term to support the entrepreneur.
Additional information and legal assistance in Utrecht
For questions or legal support, you can contact:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht