In order to restrict the possibility of abuse of the reception system, Member States should be able to provide material reception conditions only to the extent applicants do not have sufficient means to provide for themselves. Member States should be able to require applicants with sufficient means to cover, contribute to or refund the cost of the material reception conditions or health care received, including through financial guarantees. It is possible for applicants to be considered as having sufficient means to provide for themselves if, for example, they have been working for a reasonable period of time. When assessing the resources of an applicant and requiring an applicant to cover or contribute to the cost of the material reception conditions or health care received, Member States should respect the principle of proportionality and take into account the individual circumstances of the applicant and the need to respect his or her dignity or personal integrity, including the applicant’s special reception needs. Applicants should not be required to cover or contribute to the costs of their necessary health care where the health care is provided free of charge to Member States’ nationals. Applicants should not be required to take out loans to pay for reception conditions.