The cost-sharing norm determines the amount of your social assistance benefit in Utrecht if you share a home with other adults. The principle is that shared living costs lead to a lower benefit per person.
What does the cost-sharing norm entail?
This norm applies if you live with adults aged 21 or older in one house. The more adults live there, the lower the social assistance benefit per person becomes. This applies regardless of the relationship with the cohabitants.
Who is counted?
- All residents aged 21 and older at the same address
- Your partner is always counted
- Children under 21 are NOT counted
- Students receiving student finance are excluded
- Room renters with a commercial lease agreement are NOT counted
Social Assistance Amounts per Cost-Sharer
| Number of cost-sharers | Percentage per person | Amount (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 70% | € 1.281 |
| 2 persons | 50% | € 915 |
| 3 persons | 43.33% | € 793 |
| 4 persons | 40% | € 732 |
| 5 persons | 38% | € 695 |
Who falls outside the norm?
Certain groups are not counted for the cost-sharing norm:
- Students - entitled to student finance
- Young people under 21 - regardless of income or employment
- Commercial tenants - with an official lease agreement and appropriate rent
- Boarders - who pay a commercial fee for accommodation and meals
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost-Sharing Norm in Utrecht
Does my live-in parent count under this regulation?
Yes, all persons aged 21 and older registered at the same address, including parents, are counted.
Can I avoid the norm by registering separately?
No, the Municipality of Utrecht bases its decision on the actual living situation, not only on the registration in the Personal Records Database.
What if my housemate has no income of their own?
This makes no difference. Everyone who counts for the cost-sharing norm is deemed to share costs, regardless of their financial situation.
Additional Questions and Answers
How is the number of cost-sharers calculated if I live with my partner and a housemate?
All adults aged 21 and older are counted. With three cost-sharers (you, your partner, and the housemate), you receive 43.33% of the full benefit, which amounts to € 793 per person in 2024.
What to do in case of disagreement about the cost-sharing norm?
If you disagree with the decision of the Municipality of Utrecht, you can file an objection within six weeks. Gather evidence of your living situation or exceptions and consider assistance from the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55.
Does a younger brother or sister under 21 count?
No, young people up to 21 years old are not counted, regardless of their income or employment status.
What about a student as a tenant?
A student receiving student finance does not count, provided there is a market-rate lease agreement. The municipality may request proof.
What if a cost-sharer moves out?
Report this immediately to the Municipality of Utrecht. Your benefit will be recalculated based on the new number of cost-sharers, which may result in an increase.
Does the norm also apply to temporary cohabitation?
Yes, even in temporary situations such as cohabitation after a divorce, the cost-sharing norm applies if you are factually living together.
Relevant institutions in Utrecht:
- Rechtbank Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1
- Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55