Application Procedure for Extraordinary Housing Costs Assistance in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, the application for extraordinary housing costs assistance is handled through the Municipality of Amsterdam. Download the application form via amsterdam.nl or pick it up at one of the service points such as the Stadsloket in your district (e.g., Centrum, Zuid or Nieuw-West).
Step-by-Step Plan for Application in Amsterdam
- Gather documents: Rental agreement (specify whether it concerns social housing via Ymere or a housing association), mortgage statement, recent income proofs from UWV or employer, bank statements from the past 3 months, and rent or WOZ notice for housing costs in Amsterdam.
- Submit: Submit the form at a Stadsloket, by post to Postbus 7001, or digitally via Mijn Amsterdam with DigiD. Note: Amsterdammers with iDIN can also use the eHerkenning option.
- Wait for decision: The Municipality of Amsterdam decides within 8 weeks in accordance with the Participation Act; in complex cases such as temporary rent increases in popular neighborhoods like the Jordaan or Oost, this may be extended to 13 weeks.
- Follow up: Call the Wmo counter (020-254 89 10) in case of delay or prepare an objection via the Juridisch Loket Amsterdam. Use the online file for status updates.
An incomplete application, often due to missing proof of Amsterdam-specific costs such as service charges, leads to rejection. Seek help from Team Extraordinary Assistance or debt counseling via the municipality. After approval, Amsterdam deposits the assistance directly into your account or pays landlords such as housing associations directly. The duration is limited to your temporary need, taking into account the high Amsterdam rental prices. Report changes such as rent increases or income changes immediately via the reporting point. (248 words)