DUO may deviate from the law in exceptional situations. This is allowed only if:
- application of the law causes you serious and unreasonable difficulties, and
- these difficulties are not the intention of the law.
We call this power available to DUO the ‘hardship clause’. We will assess if there is a more targeted solution. We also call this ‘maatwerk’ (customised service).
What the hardship clause is not intended for
You cannot rely on the hardship clause in the following situations:
- DUO is late in taking a decision.
- You are dissatisfied with the service provided by DUO.
Invoking the hardship clause
Are you being unfairly disadvantaged by a law enforced by DUO? Then you can ask us to apply the hardship clause. In that case, you will be asking DUO to deviate from the provisions of the law.
- Write a letter describing your situation as clearly as possible. And why you feel the law is unfair in your case.
- Send your request to:
DUO
PO Box 30155
9700 LG Groningen
What happens next
You will receive a response from DUO within 8 weeks.