Housing allowance in the Netherlands: Your essential 2025 guide

What is housing allowance?

Housing allowance (huurtoeslag) in the Netherlands is a government subsidy for residents with low to middle incomes to help cover rental costs. Eligibility depends on income, rent, household size, and age. It applies to independent rental properties that meet specific criteria and is managed by the Dutch Tax Authority.

How much is the housing allowance in the Netherlands?

In 2024, the Dutch housing allowance applies to rent up to €879.66 p.m. (€454.47 if under 23 without children). It depends on income, rent, and household size. A child under 18 with savings counts toward assets. Allowances decrease with higher incomes, and shared housing may qualify if tenants meet independent living criteria.

Who can get housing allowance in the Netherlands?

​​To qualify for Dutch housing allowance (huurtoeslag), you and your benefit partner must be 18+, legally residing in the Netherlands, renting independent accommodation, and meet rent, income, and asset limits. All household members 18+ must be registered at your address. Non-EU/EEA nationals need a valid residence permit.

Do you have to pay back the housing benefit in the Netherlands?

Subsidies in the Netherlands like housing allowance do not require repayment. However, if you fail to promptly report changes in income, rent, or household composition, leading to overpayment, you must repay the excess amount. Additionally, If you move abroad, entitlement ends, and excess payments must be repaid.

Terms and conditions to get housing allowance

To qualify for housing allowance in the Netherlands, you must be at least 18 years old, reside in the Netherlands legally, and live in independent rental housing. Additionally, you must meet income, rent, and asset limits based on your household composition. You can test your qualification here. 

Housing requirements

The rented property must be independent, with a private entrance, kitchen, and toilet. The monthly rent must fall below the threshold of €879.66 (€454.47 if under 23 without children in 2024). Subsidized housing or social housing tenants are typically eligible.

Income requirements

Since January 1, 2020, there is no fixed income ceiling for housing allowance in the Netherlands. Eligibility depends on rent, age, and household composition. Rent in 2024 must not exceed €879.66, and assets as of January 1, 2024, must remain below €36,952 (singles) or €73,904 (partners).

Rental requirements

To qualify for housing allowance (huurtoeslag) in the Netherlands, your base rent must meet specific requirements, which vary by age and household situation:

Key rent limits (2024):

• General: €879.66 per month.
• Ages 18-23 without children: €454.47 per month.
• Ages 18-22 with children: €879.66 per month.

The breakdown of service costs must be clearly specified in your rental agreement to count toward the eligible base rent.

What counts as base rent:

Includes: Maintenance and cleaning of shared spaces, with a maximum of €12 per type of service cost monthly (e.g., €15 for cleaning common areas is counted as €12).

Excludes: Utility costs like gas, water, and electricity.

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Housing allowance for (international) students

Can international students get housing allowance in the Netherlands?

International students can qualify for housing allowance (huurtoeslag) in the Netherlands if they meet the eligibility criteria:

• Legal residence: Must hold a valid residence permit if from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland.
• Registered address: Registered at the rented address in the Netherlands.
• Independent accommodation: Renting a self-contained property with its own access, kitchen, and bathroom.
• Financial limits: Rent, income, and assets must fall within allowed thresholds.

(Group housing or shared accommodations typically disqualify students unless the property is classified as independent.)

💡Tip: Want to find out if you are eligible for housing allowance? Use the rent allowance calculator.

Conclusion: What you need you know about housing allowance

Housing allowance (huurtoeslag) in the Netherlands is a valuable subsidy for reducing rental costs, especially for those with low to middle incomes. Whether you're a student, expat, or local resident, qualifying depends on factors like independent accommodation, rent limits, and income thresholds.

For 2025, key points include:

• Rent must not exceed €879.66 (€454.47 if under 23 without children).
• Eligibility considers household size, income, and assets.
• Changes in circumstances, like income or moving, can affect entitlement.

By understanding the rules and conditions, you can potentially save hundreds on rent each month. Take advantage of tools like the rent allowance calculator to check eligibility and ensure you don’t miss out.

💡Tip: Not eligible for housing allowance? Sign up for free here to get housing listings delivered to your inbox as soon as they go online!