The IOAW (Income Provision for Older and Partially Work-Disabled Unemployed Workers) provides financial support to older unemployed workers in Utrecht who no longer receive unemployment benefits (WW). Unlike social assistance, your assets do not play a role in this.
What is the IOAW?
The IOAW supports workers who meet the following criteria:
- Born before 1 January 1965
- Became unemployed after their 50th birthday
- No longer entitled to unemployment benefits (WW)
- Have not yet reached state pension age (AOW)
IOAW versus social assistance
| Criterion | IOAW | Social Assistance |
|---|---|---|
| Assets test | No | Yes |
| Owner-occupied home | Not taken into account | Taken into account in part above exemption |
| Savings | No influence | Must be used in part above exemption |
| Benefit amount | Equal to social assistance norm | Equal to IOAW |
| Job application obligation | Yes | Yes |
How much IOAW benefit do you receive?
The amount of the IOAW benefit corresponds to the social assistance norms:
- Single: € 1,281 net per month (2024)
- Single parent: € 1,281 net per month
- Cohabiting/married couples: € 1,830 net per month combined
Any income from you or your partner is deducted from this amount.
Conditions for IOAW in Utrecht
- Born before 1 January 1965
- Became unemployed after age 50
- WW benefit fully exhausted
- Not yet reached AOW age
- You reside in the Netherlands, for example in Utrecht
Frequently asked questions about IOAW
Am I required to use up my savings for IOAW?
No, under the IOAW, no account is taken of your assets. You do not need to draw on your savings or home.
Do I have a job application obligation with IOAW?
Yes, even with an IOAW benefit, you are required to seek work and cooperate with reintegration programmes.
Can I apply for IOAW during my WW period?
No, you can only apply for IOAW after the end of your WW benefit. Apply no later than 4 weeks before the end of your WW.
Additional questions about IOAW in Utrecht
Who can apply for an IOAW benefit?
You are eligible for IOAW if you were born before 1 January 1965, became unemployed after age 50, no longer receive WW, have not yet reached AOW age and reside in the Netherlands, such as in Utrecht. This benefit helps older unemployed people who are without income after their WW period.
How do I apply for IOAW and what is the processing time?
The IOAW application is submitted via the Social Insurance Bank (SVB). Ideally, start the application four weeks before the end of your WW. The SVB usually decides within 8 weeks and informs you of the outcome. Ensure you have documents such as your WW decision and ID ready.
Is my partner's income taken into account for IOAW?
Yes, your partner's income is deducted from your IOAW benefit. This includes wages, pensions or other benefits. However, your partner's assets are not taken into account, which is a major difference from social assistance.
What if I find work while receiving IOAW?
If you find a job, report this immediately to the SVB. Your benefit will then be adjusted or terminated, depending on your new income. In employment, you may build up WW entitlements again. If you work less than 12 hours per week, you may retain part of the IOAW.
Can I receive IOAW if I own my home?
Yes, owning your own home is no obstacle to IOAW. Unlike social assistance, you do not need to sell or draw on your home, as assets are not taken into account.
What to do if my IOAW application is rejected?
If rejected, you receive a decision with an explanation. You can lodge an objection with the SVB within six weeks. Explain in your objection why you disagree. Consider legal assistance via, for example, the Juridisch Loket in Utrecht.
How long do I receive IOAW?
You receive IOAW until you reach AOW age. The benefit stops automatically in the month you receive AOW. There is no maximum duration, provided you meet conditions such as the job application obligation.
Legal support in Utrecht
Court: Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
Juridisch Loket: Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55