Amsterdam eases homestay regulations for inhabitants with social assistance benefits

Amsterdam now allows people on social assistance to keep part of their homestay rental income, making room sharing more accessible and affordable.

Good news from Amsterdam. The city has relaxed the rules for homestay renting by people receiving social assistance. Where renting out a room previously offered little to no financial benefit — and sometimes even resulted in a loss — residents can now keep part of their rental income. A policy change that creates more housing opportunities while giving people on a tight budget some breathing room.

From discouraging to enabling

Until recently, income from renting out a room was largely deducted from social assistance benefits. As of 1 November, this has changed. Residents on social assistance may now keep:

• up to €275 per month if the tenant lives independently in the household;

• up to €475 per month if the tenant is a lodger who also shares meals.

This marks a significant shift: homestay renting no longer comes at a cost, but can actually help cover expenses.

Clear agreements and conditions

To use the scheme, hosts must have a written rental contract outlining rent, duration and whether meals are included. Other conditions include:

• the host must live in the property;
• a maximum of two rooms may be rented out;
• permission from the property owner is required;
• renting to family members does not count.

No impact on other benefits

Importantly, income from homestay renting does not affect other benefits such as state pension, disability or unemployment benefits, nor housing or healthcare allowances. People receiving IOAW or IOAZ benefits may keep all rental income.

According to the municipality, even limited participation could create hundreds of additional rooms. For Hospi Housing, this policy shows the impact of making space within existing homes — fairly, quickly and socially.

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