What’s Changing in 2026? Rules for Rent Benefit (Huurtoeslag) For 2026

Starting 2026, more people will be eligible for rent allowance than ever before. The rules around huurtoeslag have been significantly changed, which could mean more help with your rent. Here’s a breakdown of what will change and what it could mean for you.

No More Maximum Rent Cap

Under the old rules, many people couldn’t get rent allowance if their rent was “too high.” For 2025 the cap was about €900.07 for adults. But from 2026, that strict cap is gone. Even if you pay more rent, you may still qualify under certain conditions.

That said: the allowance amount will still be based on a “calculation ceiling.” For 2026, allowances are calculated on a rent up to approximately €932.93 (for adults). If your rent is higher than that, the portion above that threshold won’t count for subsidy.

Changed Age Rule for Young Renters

Previously, renters under age 23 had stricter limits. Starting 2026, the “youth” limit is lowered to 21. That means if you’re 21 or older, you’ll be treated like an adult tenant when it comes to eligibility for huurtoeslag.

For example: a 22-year-old paying €600 rent might now get more support, whereas before they may have fallen inside the youth-rent rules.

Service Costs Are No Longer Included

Another big change: from 2026 onward, “servicekosten” (service charges, common building costs, shared utilities, etc.) will no longer count when calculating the rent eligible for huurtoeslag — only the “bare rent” (the so-called “kale huur”) matters.

If you currently receive rent allowance and included service costs in your calculation, note that your allowance will be recalculated. Some people may get more, some less — depending on their specific costs and rent level.

• More chance to qualify — If your current rent was too high under the old cap, check again in 2026. You might now be eligible for huurtoeslag.

• Good news for older students (21+) — With the youth-rent threshold lowered, more of you can qualify as regular tenants.

• Important reminders: Huurtoeslag still depends on other conditions — your income and savings must be within the allowed limits, and you must live in a self-contained rental.

• Check your rent and contract details. Is your contract a self-contained unit (not share-room)? What is the “kale huur”?

• Check your income and savings. Even with the changes, these still matter.

• Use the official calculator. You can estimate your 2026 rent allowance using the calculator on the government’s site (toeslagen.nl).

• Apply when you’re eligible. If you meet the conditions, applying could bring you monthly relief — especially useful as a student on a budget.