The cost-sharing norm is a rule that reduces your social assistance benefit if you live with multiple adults in one dwelling in Rijswijk. The starting point is that you share living costs and therefore need less financial support.
What does the cost-sharing norm entail?
The cost-sharing norm applies if you live with other adults (from 21 years of age) at the same address in Rijswijk. The more adults in the household, the lower the social assistance benefit per person becomes. This applies regardless of the relationship with the cohabitants.
Who is counted?
- Everyone aged 21 and older registered at the same address
- Your partner is always counted
- Children under 21 are NOT counted
- Students receiving student finance are NOT counted
- 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 some cases, persons are not counted for the cost-sharing norm:
- Students - entitled to student finance
- Young people under 21 - regardless of whether they have income
- Commercial tenants - with an official lease agreement and appropriate rent
- Boarders - who pay a business-like fee for accommodation and meals
Frequently asked questions about the cost-sharing norm in Rijswijk
Does my live-in parent count for the cost-sharing norm?
Yes, all persons aged 21 and older living at the same address in Rijswijk, including parents, are counted.
Can I avoid the cost-sharing norm by registering separately?
No, the Municipality of Rijswijk assesses the actual living situation. If you are factually cohabiting, the norm is applied.
What if my housemate has no income of their own?
This makes no difference. The cost-sharing norm assumes sharing of costs, regardless of someone's financial situation.
Additional questions about the cost-sharing norm
How does the municipality determine the number of cost-sharers if I live with my partner and a friend?
All adults from 21 years of age are counted, so you, your partner, and your friend make three cost-sharers. Your benefit is reduced to 43.33% of the base amount, which amounts to € 793 per person in 2024. The Municipality of Rijswijk looks at the actual situation, not relationships.
What if I believe the application of the cost-sharing norm is unjustified?
If you disagree with the decision of the Municipality of Rijswijk, you can file an objection within six weeks. Gather evidence that your situation is different, such as a commercial lease agreement. For help, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or engage a lawyer.
Does a live-in brother or sister aged 20 count?
No, young people under 21 are not counted, even if they work. This also applies to brothers and sisters in Rijswijk.
How does the norm work when renting to a student?
A student receiving student finance is not counted, even if they are older than 21. Ensure an official lease agreement with a market-conform rent. The Municipality of Rijswijk may request proof.
What if a cost-sharer moves out?
Report this immediately to the Municipality of Rijswijk. They will adjust the number of cost-sharers and your benefit may be increased. Prompt reporting prevents issues with recoveries.
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 Rijswijk if you are factually residing at the same address.