The cost-sharing norm is a rule that reduces your social assistance benefit in Leiden if you live with other adults. The starting point is that you share living expenses and therefore need less financial support.
What does the cost-sharing norm entail?
In Leiden, the cost-sharing norm applies if you share a home with other adults aged 21 or older. The more people in the household, the lower the social assistance benefit per individual. This applies to both family members and non-family members.
Who is counted?
- Everyone aged 21 and older at the same address
- Your partner is always counted
- Children under 21 are NOT counted
- Students receiving student finance are excluded
- Room renters with a commercial lease agreement are NOT counted
Amount of the benefit per cost-sharer
| Number of cost-sharers | Percentage per person | Amount (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 70% | € 1.281 |
| 2 persons | 50% | € 915 |
| 3 persons | 43.33% | € 793 |
| 4 persons | 40% | € 732 |
| 5 persons | 38% | € 695 |
Who falls outside the norm?
In Leiden, there are exceptions to the cost-sharing norm:
- Students - with student finance
- Young people under 21 - regardless of income
- Subtenants - with a commercial lease agreement and appropriate rent
- Boarders - who pay a commercial fee for accommodation
Frequently asked questions about the cost-sharing norm in Leiden
Does my live-in parent count towards the norm?
Yes, in Leiden all adults aged 21 and older living at the same address are counted, including parents.
Can I avoid the norm by registering separately?
No, the Municipality of Leiden assesses the actual living situation, not just the registration in the Personal Records Database.
What if my housemate has no income?
This makes no difference. In Leiden, it is assumed that costs are shared, regardless of someone's financial situation.
Additional questions and answers
How does the Municipality of Leiden determine the number of cost-sharers when cohabiting with a partner and friend?
All adults aged 21 and older are counted. With three persons (you, your partner, and a friend), you receive 43.33% of the basic benefit, i.e., € 793 per person in 2024.
What if I disagree with the decision of the Municipality of Leiden?
You can file an objection with the municipality within six weeks. Gather evidence of your situation and consider assistance from the Juridisch Loket Leiden at Stationsweg 46.
Does a live-in sibling under 21 count?
No, in Leiden young people up to 21 years old are not counted, regardless of their income.
How does it work with a student as tenant?
A student with student finance does not count in Leiden, provided there is an official lease agreement and the rent is market-conform.
What if a cost-sharer moves out?
Report this immediately to the Municipality of Leiden. Your benefit will be recalculated and possibly increased, depending on the number of remaining cost-sharers.
Does the norm also apply to temporary cohabitation in Leiden?
Yes, even in temporary situations such as after a divorce, the cost-sharing norm applies if you are actually living together.