With the new year just weeks away, changes are coming that will be felt in many wallets. The rules for the Dutch rent subsidy (huurtoeslag) are being adjusted from January 1, making many more people eligible for this benefit.
Maximum Rent Limit Abolished #
Several aspects of the rent subsidy are set to change, but the most significant is the abolition of the maximum rent limit. The Dutch Tax Service has announced that individuals with a rent higher than the previous limit of €900.07 per month may now be entitled to a subsidy.
Although the rent limit is being abolished, the subsidy itself is capped. The rent subsidy will be calculated over a maximum of €932.93. For any amount above this threshold, no subsidy will be provided. Starting next year, service costs will also no longer be factored into the calculation.
By removing the rent limit, an estimated 170,000 additional renters will become eligible for the subsidy. The reason for relaxing the rules is the lack of affordable housing in the Netherlands.
Different Rules for Young People #
As is currently the case, the rules for young people will continue to differ from 2026 onwards. Previously, young people were only entitled to rent subsidy if their rent was a maximum of €477.20 per month.
This restriction is now being removed. However, the amount of the subsidy is limited and will be calculated over a maximum of €498.20 per month.
Additionally, the age limit is being lowered from 23 to 21. This means that young people aged 18 to 21 will fall under the youth regulations, and starting next year, more people will be eligible for the standard rent subsidy rules.
How to Qualify for Rent Subsidy #
While the requirements regarding the rent amount are being scrapped, the other conditions remain in effect. For instance, you must live in an independent dwelling, and you are only entitled to a rent subsidy if your income does not exceed a certain limit.
The income limit for rent subsidy depends on various factors, such as your family situation, rent, and age. For example, for a 30-year-old single person without a partner or children and a monthly rent of €1,500, the income limit is approximately €46,680 per year.
There is also a maximum asset limit for single individuals, which is set at €38,479 for 2026. For partners, the combined asset limit is a maximum of €74,790.