What is Special Assistance?
Special assistance is financial support from the Municipality of Utrecht for necessary expenses that you cannot cover yourself. This concerns unexpected, exceptional costs that cannot be paid from your regular income or benefit.
What can you apply Special Assistance for?
| Type of costs | Examples |
|---|---|
| Housing | Extra heating costs, necessary furnishings |
| Health | Own contribution for medication, glasses, hearing aids |
| Legal aid | Costs for lawyers, legal assistance |
| Children | School supplies, items for a newborn baby |
| Financial administration | Costs for administration orders |
Conditions for Special Assistance
- You are registered in the Municipality of Utrecht
- The costs are essential and unavoidable
- You cannot cover the costs yourself
- There is no other scheme that covers these costs
- Your assets are below the set threshold
How do you apply for Special Assistance?
Step-by-step plan
- Contact the Municipality of Utrecht
- Indicate why you need special assistance
- Send supporting evidence, such as invoices or quotes
- The municipality assesses the necessity of the costs
- A decision usually follows within 8 weeks
How much reimbursement can you expect?
The amount of the reimbursement varies per situation:
- In many cases: full coverage of necessary costs
- Sometimes: a partial reimbursement
- It can also be offered as a loan
- Policy varies per municipality, so inquire locally
Other Provisions
Special assistance is only granted if other options are not possible:
- Health insurance schemes
- Tax credits
- Social Support Act (Wmo)
- Other support schemes
Can I get special assistance with a job and low income?
Yes, this support is not exclusive to people on benefits. Working people with low income are also eligible.
Is special assistance provided for debts?
Generally not, because debts are not considered exceptional costs. However, you can seek help through debt counselling in Utrecht.
Do I always receive the reimbursement in my account?
Not always. Sometimes the municipality pays directly to the supplier, for example for housing furnishing costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Special Assistance in Utrecht
Which costs fall under special assistance?
Costs such as high energy bills, medical contributions (e.g. for glasses), legal support, school supplies for children or baby items may qualify. Ordinary expenses such as rent or groceries, debts or costs already covered by other schemes are not reimbursed. Always seek advice from the Municipality of Utrecht.
How long does it take to get a decision?
The Municipality of Utrecht normally decides within 8 weeks. In complex cases, this may take longer, but you will be informed. Submit all documents immediately to avoid delays. In urgent cases, you can request faster processing.
What if my assets are slightly above the threshold?
If your assets are just above the limit, you may be able to get a loan instead of a grant. The municipality checks whether you really cannot pay the costs yourself. Discuss your situation and seek advice from the municipality or a financial advisor.
Can I get special assistance for a second-hand appliance such as a washing machine?
Yes, if this is a necessary purchase and you cannot afford it yourself, the municipality may consider it. Submit an application with proof of the costs.
Relevant Institutions in Utrecht
District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht