Social benefits such as allowances provide income security to financially vulnerable households. However, many people do not apply for these benefits. To understand why, we conducted a survey with over 700 Dutch residents eligible for healthcare allowances and interviewed individuals struggling to make ends meet.
Why Research Non-Usage?
Social benefits offer income security for financially vulnerable households and can help prevent financial difficulties. However, these benefits are not always utilized. Estimates of non-usage vary, ranging from around 10% for healthcare allowances and child-related budgets to as high as 50% for municipal programs, such as collective health insurance or city passes. Non-usage of social benefits can contribute to individuals experiencing or remaining in financial difficulties.
Read the full article on the Geron website or in the PDF below (Dutch only).
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