A new debt relief directive allows for debts to be forgiven without repayment, leaving creditors dissatisfied. Implemented on July 1, this measure results in a “zero offer,” meaning creditors receive nothing if the debtor’s income is below a threshold needed for living expenses.
The NVVK argues this is necessary to ensure people with significant debts have enough to live on. Creditors criticize this approach due to the lack of mandatory guidance for debtors after debt forgiveness.
Since the directive’s introduction, the number of zero offers has increased, with some creditors, like insurer Achmea, expressing concern over the rise in new debts among clients. The NVVK urges the government to raise the social minimum to increase repayment capacity.
Despite these measures, only a small fraction of households with problem debts became debt-free last year, while societal costs due to these debts remain substantial.
Source: NOS