Housing Allowance for Tenants in the Netherlands

Rent allowance (eligibility & application) 3 min read · published September 11, 2025

If you are a tenant in the Netherlands, housing allowance can help reduce monthly housing costs. This allowance depends on your income, rent, age and household composition. In this article we explain in plain language who is entitled to housing allowance, how the amount is calculated and which documents you must attach to an application. We also discuss what you can do in case of a rejection or changes in your situation, such as moving or income changes. With concrete steps, tips and references to official agencies you gain more control over the process and avoid common mistakes among tenants in the Netherlands. Read on for examples of common situations and an overview of deadlines. We also provide guidance on keeping evidence and when to seek professional help.

What is housing allowance?

Housing allowance is an income-dependent contribution from the national government that helps tenants compensate part of the rent. The rules are set out in the Civil Code Book 7 and supplementary regulations[1]. Whether you qualify mainly depends on your income, the rent level and your personal situation.

In many situations both income and rent are taken into account in the calculation.

Conditions

The main conditions are:

  • Rent within the maximum limits (huurprijs / rent) that apply for your age.
  • Income below the specified income limits (inkomen / pay).
  • Your valuation or rental contract details and any allowances must match your application.
  • You must have a valid residence status and citizen service number (BSN) on your application.
Check annually whether your details at the Tax Administration are still up to date to avoid reclaiming.

How is the amount calculated?

The Tax Administration calculates the housing allowance based on your taxable income and the rent. Small changes in income or household composition can affect the amount. For exact calculations you can consult the government's calculator or view sample calculations via official sources[3].

Application, changes and objection

You apply for housing allowance at the Tax Administration via Mijn toeslagen. For a change (income, rent, composition) you must report this; usually within one month after the change. If your application is rejected or you disagree with a decision, you can file an objection with the Tax Administration and - in specific rental matters about deposit or service charges - involve the Rent Tribunal[2].

Always respond to decisions within the stated deadlines to preserve your rights.

Practical checklist for your application

  • Attach current rental contract and proof of payments (document / record).
  • Proof of income, such as annual statement or payslip (document / proof).
  • Have BSN and identity details ready for the online application (form / application).
  • Report changes within the stated deadlines (deadline / calendar).
Clear documents and a complete application often shorten processing time.

Frequently asked questions

1) How quickly will I receive a decision on my application?
Decision times vary; the Tax Administration aims to decide within a few weeks, but workload or missing documents can extend the period.
2) What happens if my income changes?
Report income changes immediately; any overpaid allowance may be reclaimed.
3) Can I receive housing allowance if I live with multiple adults?
Yes, but joint income and household composition determine whether and how much housing allowance you receive.

How-To

  1. Gather documents: rental contract, BSN, income statements and payment proofs (application).
  2. Check whether your rent and income fall within the limits (deadline / calendar).
  3. Submit the application via Mijn toeslagen or log in at the Tax Administration (form / submit).
  4. If questions or a rejection arise: contact the Tax Administration or seek help from the Rent Tribunal (contact / help).

Key points

  • Keep all proof documents for the required period to contest reclaims if needed.
  • Be transparent about changes to avoid penalties.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] wetten.overheid.nl - Burgerlijk Wetboek Boek 7
  2. [2] huurcommissie.nl - Huurcommissie
  3. [3] government.nl - Rijksoverheid
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Netherlands

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.