Rent Benefit for Student Housing in the Netherlands
If you live in a student dorm with your own facilities, you may be eligible for rent benefit. Eligibility is determined by whether your accommodation has its own front door and letterbox. Rent benefit is provided by the Dutch government and can be arranged via the official website: Belastingdienst – Toeslagen. You will need a DigiD to complete the application process.
Factors Affecting Rent Benefit
Several personal factors influence your eligibility for and the amount of rent benefit you can receive, including:
- Savings: This includes savings accounts in your name, even if set up by your parents without your knowledge.
- The income of your parents or guardians.
- Your own income.
- Your nationality.
- The study or educational program you are enrolled in.
Additionally, the costs associated with your living space are a factor. Ensure that you provide the correct information when applying.
Costs to Report
When applying for rent benefit, you need to fill in the following costs accurately:
- (Cold) Rent: The basic rent amount.
- Energy costs for common areas:
- Note: Only include these costs if your contract explicitly states “energy costs for common areas.” If your contract mentions “energy costs” without specifying, it usually refers only to your room, which should not be included.
- Cleaning costs for common areas.
- Caretaker costs (Dutch: huismeesterkosten).
- Costs for service and recreational areas:
- Note: In Middelburg, no one pays for the use of common areas, so these costs do not apply.
Retroactive Rent Benefit
If you meet the criteria and have submitted the correct amounts, you may be eligible to receive rent benefit retroactively. This means you can claim allowance for past months during which you lived in the accommodation but had not applied yet.
Questions and Further Assistance
If you have more questions about rent benefit or other allowances, we recommend contacting the employees at DeZeeuwse Bibliotheek. They can provide further assistance with these matters.