The cost-sharing norm affects the amount of your social assistance benefit in Zoetermeer if you share a home with other adults. The principle is that shared living costs lead to a lower need for financial support.
What Does the Cost-Sharing Norm Entail?
In Zoetermeer, the cost-sharing norm is applied if you live with other adults aged 21 or older. The more adults living in one house, the lower the social assistance benefit per person. This applies regardless of the relationship between the residents.
Who Are Counted?
- All adults (21+) registered at the same address
- Your partner is always counted as a cost-sharer
- Children under 21 are not counted
- Students receiving student finance are exempt from the norm
- Room renters with a commercial lease agreement are not counted
Social Assistance Benefit Amounts 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 |
What Exceptions Apply?
In some situations, persons are not counted for the cost-sharing norm in Zoetermeer:
- Students - if they are entitled to student finance
- Young people under 21 - regardless of their income or employment status
- Subtenants - with an official lease agreement at market-conformable prices
- Boarders - who pay a commercial fee for accommodation and meals
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost-Sharing Norm in Zoetermeer
Does my live-in parent count for the cost-sharing norm?
Yes, in Zoetermeer 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 Zoetermeer assesses the actual living situation. If you actually live together, the cost-sharing norm is applied.
What if my housemate has no income?
This has no influence. In Zoetermeer, it is assumed that costs can be shared, regardless of someone's financial situation.
Additional Questions and Answers
How is the number of cost-sharers calculated if I live with my partner and a housemate?
In Zoetermeer, all adults aged 21 and older are counted. For three persons (you, your partner, and a housemate), you receive 43.33% of the basic benefit, amounting to € 793 per person in 2024.
What if I disagree with the municipality's decision?
You can file an objection with the Municipality of Zoetermeer within six weeks. Gather evidence, such as a lease agreement, and consider seeking advice from the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer or a lawyer.
Does a younger brother or sister aged 20 count?
No, in Zoetermeer persons under 21 are not counted, even if they work or have income.
How does it work if I rent out a room to a student?
A student receiving student finance does not count for the norm in Zoetermeer, provided there is an official lease agreement and the rent is market-conformable.
What if a cost-sharer moves out?
Report this immediately to the Municipality of Zoetermeer. Your benefit will be recalculated and may be increased based on the new number of cost-sharers.
Does the norm also apply to temporary cohabitation, for example after a divorce?
Yes, the cost-sharing norm is also applied in cases of temporary cohabitation in Zoetermeer if you are actually residing at the same address.