More tenants eligible for rent allowance as rules relax in 2026
From 2026, more Dutch tenants can apply for rent allowance due to relaxed rules. Key changes include removing the maximum rent threshold and lowering the age limit to 21, potentially easing housing costs for thousands.
| Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum rent threshold | Removed as a condition |
| Rent allowance calculation | Based on a maximum rent amount |
| Age limit | Lowered to 21 years |
| Service charges | No longer included in the calculation |
| Source for eligibility check | VoorzieningenWijzer |
The Belastingdienst (Dutch Tax and Customs Administration) oversees the rent allowance scheme, which provides financial support to low-income tenants. These changes reflect the government’s effort to make housing more affordable amid rising living costs.
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Changes to Rent Allowance
Did you know that the rules for rent allowance have been relaxed as of 2026? This means that more people can apply for rent allowance this year.
The main changes are:
- The maximum rent threshold as a condition has been removed;
- Rent allowance will now be calculated with a maximum rent;
- The age limit has been lowered to 21 years;
- Service charges are no longer included in the calculation.
For more information, visit the Belastingdienst website.
Do I qualify for rent allowance?
Not sure if you qualify for rent allowance? Use the Allowance Check from VoorzieningenWijzer! This tool checks whether you may be entitled to rent allowance or another national scheme, such as healthcare allowance or childcare allowance.