Until December 31, 2023, any allowance or benefit could have a direct effect on the calculation of benefits for persons with disabilities. However, since January 1, 2024 an important change has come into effect: the attendance allowances paid to people who sit in a municipal council, provincial council, social council or an advisory body are no longer counted as taxable income in calculating the benefit.

This means that the persons concerned can now engage in public and community life without fear of (partially) losing their entitlement to benefits.

2. The steps to take 

Although this income is exempt, an administrative obligation remains.

• You must inform the administration that you receive attendance allowances.

• This declaration is made via the contact form available on the official benefits portal.

• You must attach a document proving your appointment to the relevant council (e.g., a copy of the official decision).

The administration then uses this data to update your file, while applying the exemption.

3. Towards a simplified procedure thanks to My Handicap

A simplification has been announced: in the near future it will be possible to report receipt of attendance allowances directly via My Handicap, the digital portal intended for managing your benefits file. This will speed up procedures and reduce paper administrative exchanges.

This reform fits within a logic of civil inclusion: persons with disabilities can take on local responsibilities and participate in public decisions without fear of negative consequences for their financial security.

📚 Sources 

• Federal Public Service Social Security – DG Persons with Disabilities: handicap.belgium.be

• My Handicap – online portal: myhandicap.belgium.be

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