Flooding support measures for entrepreneurs
The Dutch government has announced various support measures (in Dutch) to help businesses in areas that have been affected by the recent floods. Below you will find an overview of the financial support offered.
Government reimbursement scheme
On 15 July 2021, the government declared the floods in Limburg and surroundings an official national disaster. This means that citizens, institutions, and businesses can apply for compensation under the Reimbursement for damages due to disasters Act (in Dutch Wet Tegemoetkoming Schade bij rampen, Wts). Wts can cover damages (in Dutch) that were unavoidable, could not be insured, and for which you have no other way of claiming compensation. The reimbursement can be granted for expenses made due to:
- preventative measures taken to limit material damage;
- material damage as a direct consequence of the floods.
The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) will be handling the Wts reimbursement scheme. Check this article for details on how to report damages through the RVO claims form.
Please note: A donation or allowance from the Dutch National Disaster Fund (Giro 777) and any compensation received through Wts can have consequences for the calculation of your turnover loss for NOW. Ask about this when you apply for the benefit.
Damage to crops
Farmers, arable farmers, and growers may face crop damage as a result of the heavy rainfall and floods, resulting in financial loss. Therefore, the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality is looking into the possibility of reopening the 80% advance payment scheme for the Common Agriculture Policy income support, so you can access these funds a few months earlier.
Support through your municipality
Your municipality might also be able to provide support through the Temporary support for essential costs (TONK) and the Participation Act. Inquire with your municipality to discover what other measures they might provide.
Temporary support centre Tax Administration
The Tax Administration has launched a support centre for entrepreneurs who have been affected by the Limburg floodings. If you have questions about tax matters or need help, you can contact the support centre on work days between 9:00 - 17:00 hours: 088-1542600. You can also send an email to wateroverlast@belastingdienst.nl.