Assistance and Cohabitation in Utrecht
If you live in Utrecht and cohabit, this can affect your social assistance benefit. The Municipality of Utrecht assesses the income and assets of all members of your household. This can result in a lower benefit or even the termination of your assistance.
When Are You Considered Cohabiting?
| Situation | Cohabiting? | Impact on Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Married or registered partnership | Yes | Joint assessment |
| Cohabiting with a partner | Yes | Joint assessment |
| Living with family (e.g., parents) | Cost-sharing norm | Reduced benefit |
| Sharing home with housemate (not a partner) | Cost-sharing norm | Reduced benefit |
What Does Joint Household Mean?
The Municipality of Utrecht investigates whether you maintain a joint household by looking at:
- Are you registered at the same address?
- Do you share financial expenses such as rent or groceries?
- Do you have children together?
- Have you been married in the past?
- Do you provide care for each other?
What Is the Cost-Sharing Norm?
The Cost-Sharing Norm Explained
If you live with multiple adults in one house, your benefit is reduced:
- 2 adults: 50% of the norm for married persons per person
- 3 adults: 43% per person
- 4 adults: 40% per person
- And so on
Exceptions to the Cost-Sharing Norm
In some cases, the cost-sharing norm does not apply, for example, for:
- Students with student finance
- Persons under the age of 21
- Commercial rental of a room
- Specific care arrangements
Inspections and Risk of Fraud
The Municipality of Utrecht conducts inspections to verify whether the reported situation is correct:
- Home visits
- Analysis of financial data
- Cross-checks with other agencies
- Strict approach in case of suspected fraud
Am I Entitled to Assistance with a LAT Relationship?
No, as long as you live at separate addresses and do not maintain a joint household, you are not considered cohabiting by the municipality.
My 22-Year-Old Child Lives at Home. Does This Have an Impact?
Yes, a child aged 21 or older counts towards the cost-sharing norm, unless they are a student with student finance. This reduces your benefit.
What If I Start Cohabiting with Someone Who Has Income?
If your partner has income, your assistance may be reduced or terminated, depending on the total household income.
Frequently Asked Questions about Assistance in Utrecht
Who can apply for unemployment benefits?
Unemployment benefits are possible if you are unemployed, have previously paid premiums, and are registered with the UWV.
What is the duration of unemployment benefits?
This depends on your employment history and varies between 3 months and 38 weeks.
What does assistance entail?
Assistance is financial support from the municipality for people who do not have enough income to provide for their livelihood.
How can I apply for assistance in Utrecht?
You can apply for assistance via the Municipality of Utrecht. You must demonstrate your personal and financial situation.
Am I required to look for work while on benefits?
Yes, with unemployment benefits, you must actively apply for jobs and be able to prove this to the UWV.
Contact and Help in Utrecht
For legal questions or support, you can contact:
- District Court Midden-Nederland: Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht: Catharijnesingel 55, Utrecht