A person receiving a benefit has an information obligation. This means that individuals must report changes in their situation that may be relevant to their entitlement to the benefit. For example, if someone with a welfare benefit starts (partially) working again, receives an inheritance, or moves in with someone.
Realistic Fines
People who do not properly report changes and thus receive too much money in error must repay this and may also receive a fine. Minister Van Hijum believes that the amounts are currently unrealistically high for people on benefits. It also often happens in practice that the imposed fines are not collected. Therefore, the internet consultation on the adjustment of the Fines Decision in social security states, among other things, that these fines will be lowered. This is to make the fines more realistic and reasonable.
It is also stated in the internet consultation that imposed fines must be payable within a reasonable period. Fines for violations must be payable within 12 months, and fines for serious violations within 24 months. If it becomes clear that someone cannot pay the imposed fine within this period, the amount will be reduced.
Measures Decision
In addition to an adjustment of the Fines Decision, an adjustment of the Measures Decision is also opened for internet consultation. This concerns 2 limited technical legislative changes.
Would you like to respond?
You can respond to the adjustment of the Fines Decision until May 23, 2025.
You can respond to the adjustment of the Measures Decision until May 23, 2025.