Recently, Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Finance Minister Sigrid Kaag said they have little opportunity this year to provide any additional assistance to low- and middle-income people. The purchasing power of this part of the population of the Netherlands is falling sharply due to inflation and rising energy prices. However, criticism from the opposition prompted the prime minister to change his position and is ready to consider the possibility of additional payments for the fall.
Anti-crisis measures
This spring, the Cabinet of Ministers introduced a €6 billion anti-crisis support package for people with the lowest incomes. People who receive the minimum wage will be paid extra 800 euros for energy. The minimum wage and AOW pensions are being raised, and the energy tax is being reduced. From July 1, 2022 until the end of 2022, VAT on energy products will be temporarily reduced from 21% to 9%.
"Autumn allowance" - najaarstoeslag
If the government finds an opportunity to provide financial assistance to low-income people, then such benefits will be awarded to those who already receive healthcare allowance - Subsidized health insurance. These are people who earn a maximum of about 32 gross euros per year. For couples, the limit is around 000 euros per year.
Technical difficulties
It is technically difficult to pay benefits in the fall. However, Rutte said: "We think that 500 euros for people with medium and low incomes this year is still possible." The opposition, as a next step, is now talking about supporting companies affected by the war in Ukraine and rising prices.
The government has not yet made any final decisions regarding the “autumn allowance”. And if it does, we'll let you know!
Publication Date: 05.07.2022
