Rent Allowance Fraud in Amsterdam: Legislation and Remedial Measures
In Amsterdam, where rental prices are sky-high due to the tight housing market in neighborhoods such as the Jordaan, De Pijp, and Oost, rent allowance fraud falls under the Rent Allowance Act. The Tax and Customs Administration/Benefits detects fraud often through address checks in collaboration with the Municipality of Amsterdam and analysis of income data. Common forms of fraud include fake rental contracts with private landlords or concealing a partner in a shared home along the canals or in new-build apartments.
Detection and Investigation in Amsterdam
Through data linking with the Municipal Personal Records Database (BRP) of the Municipality of Amsterdam and landlords such as Ymere or the Alliantie, suspicious cases are identified. In case of suspected fraud in Amsterdam rental properties, the Tax and Customs Administration sends an information request or conducts a house search in consultation with the local authorities.
Consequences for Amsterdammers
As a result, the full benefit must be repaid, plus a fine of up to 100% of the amount with a minimum of €650. The benefit is discontinued. You can object to decisions within six weeks at the Tax and Customs Administration. In Amsterdam, tenants often report to the Legal Aid Office on Ferdinand Bolstraat for free advice.
Appeal Procedure
After objection, you can file an appeal with the District Court of Amsterdam. Appeal on points of law is possible with the Council of State. Specifically for Amsterdam: voluntary payment prevents enforced collection via the municipality, and limitation occurs after 5 years from discovery.
- Voluntary payment via iDEAL or bank transfer prevents collection by the Municipality of Amsterdam
- Limitation after 5 years, but active checks in neighborhoods such as Bijlmer and Centrum extend detection
- Contact Woonbelangen Amsterdam for rental disputes
Avoid problems by correctly completing your application with current address details from the Amsterdam population register. In case of errors: correct immediately via Mijn toeslagen to avoid fines in the vibrant capital.