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Bare vs total rent: what counts for housing benefit?

In Amsterdam, it is crucial to know whether your **bare rent** or **total rent** counts for **housing benefit**. Discover the rules, examples, and what to do in case of errors in the calculation.

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Bare rent vs. total rent for housing benefit in Amsterdam

For Amsterdammers, the rent plays a key role in the housing benefit. The bare rent (excluding service charges) differs from the total rent (including everything). The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) determines which one applies, based on your tenancy agreement. This article for Amsterdam explains it, with local examples and steps in case of problems.

Difference between bare and total rent

Bare rent: The base rate for the accommodation itself, without utilities, service charges or administration. As stated in your contract.

Total rent: Everything added together, including mandatory service charges, gas, water, electricity and sometimes internet – the gross rent.

Usually, the SVB uses the bare rent, but in Amsterdam contracts with integrated costs, the total may count.

Legal rules for Amsterdam

Based on the Work and Assistance Act (Wwb) and SVB guidelines. Important for Amsterdam:

  • Bare rent is standard, unless the contract bundles service charges.
  • 2024 rent threshold: € 879.66 (single person). Above this amount in Amsterdam often no or less benefit.
  • Check via SVB.nl or huurtoeslag.nl.

Amsterdam examples

Example 1: Standard Amsterdam rent

Situation: Apartment in De Pijp, € 850/month bare rent, plus € 150 service charges (gas, water, maintenance).

Bare: € 850 | Total: € 1.000

Benefit: SVB uses € 850. Above € 879.66? Possibly no benefit, unless income is low.

Example 2: All-in rent in Amsterdam

Situation: Studio in Oost, contract € 950 all-in (rent + service + utilities).

Bare: € 700 (specified) | Total: € 950

Benefit: If the contract mentions total, € 950 counts. Check with landlord!

What if your benefit is too low in Amsterdam?

1. Check tenancy agreement and SVB calculation.

2. Request rent proof from landlord.

3. Object to SVB within 6 weeks.

Local help:

  • Amsterdam District Court: Parnassusweg 220 – for disputes.
  • Amsterdam Legal Aid Office: Vijzelstraat 77 – free advice (020-5338430).
  • Municipality of Amsterdam: Rent team via amsterdam.nl/huurteam.

Tip: Use the SVB trial calculation. With all-in contracts in Amsterdam often discussion – have it checked!