Repaying Rent Allowance in The Hague: Conditions and Consequences
Repaying rent allowance is a common obligation for tenants in The Hague who receive the allowance. Changes such as a higher income, relocation or errors in the application often lead to repayment. In The Hague, you can go to local institutions such as the The Hague District Court (Prins Clauslaan 60) for appeals and the Legal Aid Office The Hague (Lutherse Burgwal 10) for free advice. This article discusses the rules, procedures and what you can do.
What is Rent Allowance and When to Repay in The Hague?
Rent allowance helps residents of The Hague with rent costs and is paid by the Tax Authorities/Allowances, based on income, rent and household. Repayment is required in case of:
- Undue allowance, e.g. due to incorrect information.
- Income increase after application.
- Relocation within or outside The Hague.
- Overpayment due to SVB error.
- Periods without entitlement, such as temporary absence.
Legal Basis
Based on the Rent Allowance Act, Allowances Decree (art. 29-32) and Allowances Implementation Regulation. Report changes promptly to the Tax Authorities to avoid problems.
How Does Repayment Proceed?
You receive a decision letter with the amount, term (often 8 weeks), options for instalments and objection procedure. In The Hague, you file an objection with the Tax Authorities; if rejected, appeal to the The Hague District Court, Prins Clauslaan 60.
Amount and Calculation
- Entirely undue: Full amount back + interest.
- Income/rent change: Difference amount.
- Administrative error: Only the overpaid amount.
Interest and Sanctions
Delay leads to statutory interest (approx. 4-5%, art. 3.15 Allowances Decree). Fines in case of fraud (up to 100% of the amount).
Instalment Arrangement
Request an instalment plan via the My Allowances portal or Tax Hotline. Possible 12-24 months, depending on income. In The Hague, the Legal Aid Office The Hague (Lutherse Burgwal 10, tel. 0900-8020) helps with applications and negotiations.
Objection and Appeal in The Hague
Objection: Within 6 weeks after decision. Appeal: After rejection within 6 weeks at The Hague District Court. Free help via Legal Aid Office or court website. In case of financial hardship: apply for extraordinary assistance from The Hague Municipality.
Unable to Pay? Options
- Request instalment arrangement.
- Debt counselling via The Hague Municipality.
- Opposition or remission in exceptional circumstances (e.g. illness).
Contact the Legal Aid Office The Hague directly for personal advice.