Volunteering & benefits
Knowledge Center: Legislation & Regulations
Knowledge Center: Legislation & Regulations
Volunteering while receiving benefits: what is allowed?
People receiving benefits are permitted to do volunteer work. However, there are rules, and these vary depending on the specific benefit situation. This article provides an overview of the key guidelines.
People receiving benefits are permitted to do volunteer work. However, there are rules, and these vary depending on the specific benefit situation. This article provides an overview of the key guidelines.
Why are there rules?
The benefit agency (UWV, municipality, or SVB) needs to know if volunteer work affects your benefits. This can happen in two ways: by limiting your availability for paid work, or because the volunteer work effectively resembles paid employment.
The rules are not intended to discourage volunteering—quite the opposite. However, transparency is required.
Unemployment benefit (WW)
You are allowed to do volunteer work while receiving unemployment benefits, provided that:
- You remain available for paid work
- You report the hours to the UWV
- The volunteer work does not displace paid work (i.e., you are not doing for free what others are paid to do)
The UWV may decide to deduct hours from your benefit if the volunteer work too closely resembles a regular job. Always report it in advance.
Social assistance benefit (Participation Act)
The municipality decides whether and to what extent volunteer work is permitted. Some municipalities are lenient, while others impose conditions. Always report volunteer work to your caseworker.
In many cases, volunteering is actually encouraged as a step towards employment. However, the same rule applies here: do not do it without reporting it.
State pension or retirement pension
People receiving the state pension or private pension may do volunteer work without restrictions. There are no reporting obligations or consequences for the benefit.
Disability benefit (WIA/WAO/Wajong)
Special attention is required here. Volunteer work can influence the assessment of your capacity for work. Always report it to the UWV and request written permission before starting.
Volunteer allowance and benefits
In most cases, a small volunteer allowance (reimbursement of expenses) does not affect your benefit, provided it stays within statutory limits. The following maximum amounts apply for 2026:
€220 per month
€2,200 per year
If you exceed these limits, the allowance may be classified as income and affect your benefit.
Practical advice for organizations
As a coordinator or board member: always ask new volunteers whether they are receiving a benefit. Not to deter them, but to ensure they are properly informed. Remind them of the reporting obligation and, if necessary, assist them in communicating with the benefits agency.
Next step
Are you unsure about a specific situation? Refer the volunteer to their benefits agency or a social welfare advisor. They can provide tailored advice that this article cannot.