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Practical guide

Prepare an appointment at CPAS

A well-prepared appointment avoids an extra trip because a document is missing. Here is what to say, what to bring and what your rights are.

Before you start

  • Identification or residence permit, even if expired.
  • Proof of your resources, or of their absence: account extracts, pay slips, or nothing if you have nothing.
  • Housing documents, if you have any: lease, rent receipts and energy bills.
  • Household composition if you have it (the municipality delivers it).
  • A written list of what you want to ask, so you don't forget anything.

The steps, in order

  1. What to know firstProcedures vary between CPAS offices: appointments, walk-in reception hours and local branches. Call before travelling there. This guide provides general information, not legal advice.

    Start by saying what you are requesting

    One sentence is enough: "I am here to apply for integration income", "I am here to apply for social assistance" or "I am here to apply for urgent medical assistance". The CPAS must register EVERY application, even if it appears incomplete.

  2. Request an acknowledgement on the same day

    This is your right and the most important document from the appointment: the date on the acknowledgement of receipt starts the legal 30-day decision period. Without that acknowledgement, your application has not officially started. Do not leave without it.

  3. Tell your situation simply

    The social worker carries out a social assessment. This is normal and is not a police interview. Tell the truth: information withheld and discovered later can lead to the loss of the benefit. You may bring someone you trust.

  4. Write down what is missing and what happens next

    Before leaving, confirm which documents you must bring, how to submit them, who your social worker is and when you will receive an answer. The decision must be made within 30 days and notified in writing.

  5. If the decision is a refusal, don't stop there

    A refusal must be written and give reasons. You have 3 months to appeal to the Labour Court free of charge. If your income is low, the Legal Aid Office can provide free legal assistance through the pro deo system.

This guide offers guidance, never legal advice. Practice differs from one commune to another: call before you go. If you are in immediate danger, call 112.