Objection Procedure Against Rent Allowance Recovery in Utrecht
Do you receive a recovery decision for rent allowance in Utrecht? File an objection with the Tax Authorities within 6 weeks and protect your rights. Step-by-step guide with local tips for success.
Do you live in Utrecht and receive a letter about overpaid rent allowance, for example due to rising rents in neighbourhoods such as Kanaleneiland or Overvecht? You have exactly 6 weeks to lodge an objection with the Tax Authorities/Benefits. Draft a letter with your benefits number, the date of the decision and a clear explanation of why you disagree. Attach supporting documents, such as recent income specifications from the Municipality of Utrecht, your tenancy agreement with a Utrecht housing association such as Portaal or Mitros, or evidence of exceptional circumstances such as temporary unemployment in the region. Send the letter to the address on the decision or digitally via Mijn toeslagen on mijn.belastingdienst.nl. The Benefits Service reopens your file and issues a ruling within 8 weeks (extension to 12 weeks in complex cases, such as rental prices in the centre of Utrecht). Do you have financial difficulties due to high living costs in the city? Immediately request a deferral of payment. If your objection is rejected? Proceed within 6 weeks to the District Court of Midden-Nederland in Utrecht for appeal. Note: court fee amounts to €91 for individuals, but this is refunded if you win. Increase your chances of success by reporting changes in income or rent in a timely manner via the Utrecht Wonen & Wonen service desk or the Tax Authorities. For free legal assistance in Utrecht: contact the Juridisch Loket at Oudegracht 175 or Het Juridisch Steunpunt Utrecht for low-income individuals. With the right approach, you can save thousands of euros in rent allowance and retain your home in Utrecht. (278 words)