More People Eligible for Rent Allowance

“From January, you will also be eligible for rent allowance with a higher rent. This can make a big difference for many households. By making a trial calculation, you know what to expect regarding rent allowance in 2026,” says State Secretary Sandra Palmen of Recovery and Allowances.

From 2026, the rent can no longer be too high to apply for rent allowance, as long as other conditions are met. For example, the income and assets of a tenant must not exceed the allowed limits, and the dwelling must be an independent living space. For singles in 2026, a maximum asset limit of 38,479 euros applies.

The amount of rent allowance remains dependent, among other things, on income and rent price. For tenants aged 21 and over, the allowance is calculated up to a maximum rent of 932.93 euros. If the rent is higher, no allowance is calculated on the part above this amount. For young people aged 18 to 20, a maximum rent limit of 498.20 euros applies. For lower rent, the allowance is calculated based on the actual rent price.

In 2025, young people aged 21 and 22 still fell under the lower youth limit. From 2026, they no longer fall under that age limit, so they can sometimes receive more rent allowance. In households with multiple young people, the Tax Administration generally looks at the age of the oldest resident. If this person is 21 or older, the higher maximum rent limit applies. Exceptions can be found at toeslagen.nl.

From 2026, the Tax Administration only counts the basic rent in the calculation. Service costs are no longer included. If tenants received rent allowance for service costs in 2025, the Tax Administration will automatically adjust this.

With a trial calculation on toeslagen.nl/proefberekening, tenants can see how much rent allowance they can receive in 2026. After filling in their personal situation, an indication of the future allowance appears. Those who are entitled to rent allowance in 2026 but do not yet receive it can apply via My Allowances on toeslagen.nl.

Tenants who already receive allowances will receive a letter in December 2025 with the advance amount for 2026 based on the data known to the Tax Administration.

Developments in personal situations – such as higher or lower income, moving, or cohabiting – can affect the amount of rent allowance.

On toeslagen.nl/huurtoeslag, people can find answers to frequently asked questions. They can also call 0800-0543 or visit a help point nearby. All forms of assistance can be found at toeslagen.nl/hulp.