If you are a tenant, student, or expat living in the Netherlands, you might rely on rent allowance (huurtoeslag) to make your housing more affordable. Each year, the Dutch government adjusts the rules for housing benefit. In 2026, several important updates have been introduced that affect who can apply and how much you can receive.
In this article, we explain the 2026 rent allowance updates, what this means for tenants, and how you can check if you qualify.
Rent Allowance Netherlands 2026: The Main Changes
1. Income and Savings Limits Updated
The maximum income and asset thresholds for rent allowance have increased slightly in 2026, giving more people access to huurtoeslag. This means some students and expats who were just above the limit last year may now qualify.
2. Higher Rent Price Limit
The maximum rent cap has been raised to keep up with inflation and the Dutch rental market.
- In 2025, the limit was around €808.
- In 2026, the limit is expected to increase by about 2–3%, making more apartments eligible.
3. Young Tenants Can Apply for Studios
This is one of the most important changes for students and young renters.
- Before: Tenants under 23 could usually only get rent allowance if their rent was very low, and studios were excluded.
- Now (2026): Tenants under 23 can also receive rent allowance for independent studios (with their own kitchen, bathroom, and front door), as long as the rent is within the youth limit.
👉 This is a game-changer for international students renting small studios.
4. Backdating Still Possible
You can still apply for rent allowance in 2026 and backdate your application to January of the same year, provided you met the conditions from that date.
How Much Can You Get in 2026?
The amount depends on:
- Your monthly rent
- Your income and assets
- Your household size
On average, tenants in the Netherlands can expect between €100 and €420 per month in 2026, depending on their situation.
👉 Use the official rent allowance calculator (huurtoeslag berekenen) to check your personal entitlement.
Who Qualifies for Rent Allowance in 2026?
The conditions remain mostly the same as in 2025:
- You are 18 years or older.
- You rent an independent living space (including studios for young people, starting 2026).
- Your income, savings, and rent fall below the set thresholds.
- You are registered at your address (BRP) and have a BSN number.
How to Apply for Rent Allowance in 2026
Applications are done via the Belastingdienst (Tax Authority) through Mijn Toeslagen.
Steps:
- Log in with your DigiD.
- Select huurtoeslag (rent allowance).
- Enter your rental and income details.
- Submit your application.
Payments are monthly and can be backdated to the start of the year.
Why You Should Be Careful When Applying
Even with 2026 changes, wrongful applications remain risky. If you apply without meeting the conditions, the Tax Authority can demand repayment of all received benefits, plus fines. Always double-check eligibility.
Conclusion
The 2026 rent allowance changes in the Netherlands are especially good news for young tenants and international students, since studios now qualify for rent allowance under 23. By staying informed and applying correctly, you can save hundreds of euros each month.
At Domakin.nl, we help international students secure reliable housing and understand benefits like huurtoeslag.
👉 Need help securing your new home and financial support? Contact Domakin today.
