Can I register a car in my name without it affecting my benefits?

Questioner

I (male, 63 years old) receive benefits - I fall under the Participation Act. Can take over a car for 0,- (zero euros) due to the death of the owner whom I have known for 35 years. According to the Participation Act, I am allowed to drive a car with a value of up to 4,500 euros. If the value of the car is more than €4,500, this is considered 'assets'. The value of the car is according to the Bovag price list and the Mercedes dealer 7000,- euro. So that leaves 2500,- euro that can be counted as 'assets' by the social service. I have no other assets or savings account, so I think it should be possible to put the car in my name without it affecting my benefits. Now the question is; am I right? I believe the maximum permitted assets for a payout is 5,500 euros, so I would be 3,000 euros below that. Kind regards and awaiting your reply, Wouter.

Lawyer

No, that is not correct. With the €7,000 value you are above the limit.