Housing Benefit and the Impact of Rent Increases in Amsterdam

In Amsterdam, the housing benefit compensates for rent increases in the regulated sector for low-income households, which is crucial in a city with the highest rental prices in the Netherlands. If your rent increases, your benefit automatically rises as well, provided your income and rent remain within the set limits (maximum €900 for 2024). Apply via [toeslagen.nl](https://www.toeslagen.nl) using your DigiD. Landlords such as Ymere or De Key must report your new rent for recalculation. In Amsterdam’s social housing sector, over 90% of tenants are eligible for housing benefit; rent increases have minimal impact on purchasing power thanks to this support. **Regulated sector:** The benefit applies if your income is below €25,000. **Transitional sector:** The benefit phases out upon liberalization, typically around €800-€900 in neighborhoods like Bijlmer or West. Calculate your entitlement using the trial calculation on the [Dutch Tax Administration website](https://www.belastingdienst.nl). If there is a delay in payment, request an advance from the Municipality of Amsterdam. **Disputes over the benefit?** You may take the matter to court within 6 weeks, with support from the Legal Counter (Juridisch Loket) in Amsterdam East or Center. Combine this with the Amsterdam energy benefit for additional protection against rising costs. This scheme helps keep living in the expensive capital affordable, despite the tight housing market.