In Amsterdam, we try to identify residents with emerging financial problems as early as possible. We offer them assistance so that their issues can hopefully be resolved quickly. In 2024, we contacted 90,000 Amsterdammers with payment arrears.
The reach of our early warning teams was 81 percent last year, compared to an average national reach of 21 percent.
Early intervention helps
Thanks to early intervention, situations rarely spiral out of control. For instance, the number of seizures on benefits has decreased by 56 percent since 2021. Additionally, the number of evictions due to financial problems remains at a stable low level. The average resolved debt in Amsterdam is €25,000, significantly lower than the national average of €40,000.
Security of existence remains under pressure
Despite all efforts, the security of existence for many Amsterdammers remains under pressure. The number of reports from Amsterdammers with payment arrears has increased again, by 18 percent in 2024. There is also a 40 percent increase in the number of contract terminations by energy suppliers. Without intervention from the government, the debt problem in Amsterdam will continue to rise. We urge The Hague to raise the social minimum, simplify the social security system, and especially protect young people from the debt industry.
Ongoing support
With our new debt assistance policy plan Beyond Debt, we continue to work on preventing and resolving debts. Additionally, we provide ongoing support even after the assistance process. This helps people gain control over their financial situation and reduces the chance of falling back into debt.
Furthermore, we continue to protect young people from financial problems. We are committed to limiting risky financial products such as Buy Now, Pay Later and online gambling, and expanding financial education in schools.