Conditions for special assistance housing costs in Utrecht
In Utrecht, the municipality grants special assistance for housing costs only under strict conditions. You must prove that your rent or mortgage cannot reasonably be paid from your income or assets. This applies especially to tenants in the city and homeowners with limited income, taking into account the high Utrecht housing prices.
Main conditions in Utrecht
- Income limit according to welfare norm: Your gross income, including holiday pay and allowances, may not exceed the Utrecht welfare norm. For 2024, this is around €1,200 net for single persons.
- Asset check: Savings or assets above €7,575 (single) or €15,090 (cohabiting) as of 1 January exclude assistance; the municipality of Utrecht applies strict reference dates.
- Market-conform housing costs: Rents above the liberalisation threshold (€879.66 in 2024) or excessive mortgage interest are rarely reimbursed; check via the Utrecht Housing Register.
- Temporary situation: Necessity due to job loss, divorce or illness must be demonstrably temporary, in accordance with the Utrecht Participation Act.
The municipality of Utrecht assesses applications individually via the Work and Income desk. Provide evidence such as your rental agreement with a Utrecht housing association (e.g. Portaal or Bo-Ex), recent payslips and bank statements. In case of rejection, you have six weeks to object; use the Utrecht form on utrecht.nl. The Juridisch Loket Utrecht offers free advice at Kanaalstraat 234.
Note: special assistance does not cover full rent; combine with Utrecht energy allowance or rent allowance via the Tax Authorities. Create a financial overview with the Utrecht Calculation Tool for a better chance of success. (247 words)