Your household income is lower than the social security benefit, but higher than the lower limit set out in the Bbz regulations. Unfortunately, you do not expect the situation to improve in the short term. In fact, your business is no longer viable. You therefore wish to apply for a supplementary benefit so that you can continue to run your business and provide for part of your own income. You will receive this benefit until you reach retirement age at the latest.
The government can top up your income to social security level. You will receive social security benefits until, at the latest, the first day of the month in which you reach retirement age. We determine the amount of the benefit based on your specific circumstances, such as your household composition, housing costs and disability insurance contributions.
The benefit is an interest-free loan. We will examine your income and assets on the basis of your accounts and your income tax return. We will then determine whether or not you are required to repay the benefit.
Income
- You have been wholly or partly dependent on this income for your living expenses for at least 18 months. Have you been self-employed for a shorter period? In that case, you are considered a start-up.
- You must not have any other income apart from your business income that would take you above the social security threshold. So be sure to include your partner’s income. Is that income from temporary work? If so, there may be options available. Please ask us about this.
A viable business
- Your business is not viable. Nevertheless, you wish to continue running it. You expect your business to generate a gross income of at least €8,425 (for the entrepreneur’s allowance) per financial year.
Assets
- Do you or your partner own any assets (such as a home)? If so, you may still be eligible for financial support. If you have a business partner, we will also assess their assets. The value of your assets determines whether the support takes the form of a loan or a grant.
Liability and administration
- You are in charge of your business and bear the financial risk associated with it.
- You must keep proper (business) records and submit your tax returns to the tax authorities on time.
- When submitting your application, you must provide access to your accounts, income tax returns and tax assessments for the last three years. You must submit provisional figures for the current financial year and a forecast for the coming year. You must also explain how the problems arose.