A Dictionary of Dutchness

Bijstand

Bijstand (welfare) is a social security benefit for people with no income who are not claiming unemployment benefit (WW), incapacity benefit (WAO) or a state pension (AOW). Since 2004, local authorities have been responsible for paying welfare benefits and helping people back to work. In 2009 the basic benefit for a single adult was €615.15 a month plus holiday pay and health and housing subsidies.