Unexpected benefit clawback received — what now?
Do NOT pay immediately. Demand substantiation → object within 6 weeks → request deferral. For old unfair files: UHT route.
Plan: (1) Read the letter — which benefit, year, amount, legal basis? (2) Check your own return/changes — does the amount match an income change you reported? (3) Demand written full substantiation (calculation, income, AWIR articles). The Toeslagen scandal made clear: clawback without clear reasoning is in principle untenable. (4) Object within 6 weeks of date stamp; objection is free. (5) Request payment deferral — pending objection, no collection. (6) For Toeslagen-scandal files (childcare 2005-2019, other 2008-2020): check UHT (Recovery Office) — right to recovery payment + waiver. Post-scandal objection success rate 50-70%.