Disability Allowance

A Broad Term for Various Types of Support

Tegemoetkoming gehandicapten is a broad Dutch phrase that translates to 'allowance for disabled persons'. It is not one single, specific benefit. Instead, it is an umbrella term that covers various forms of support that people with a physical or mental disability may be entitled to. For a tenant, this support can be broken down into two main categories: support for adapting the home, and support for income.

Support for Housing Adaptations (Wmo)

This is the most direct form of 'housing allowance' for disabilities. If a tenant's disability requires their home to be physically modified to be livable (e.g., made wheelchair accessible), the financial support for these adaptations comes from the municipality via the Wet maatschappelijke ondersteuning (Wmo). This can cover the cost of a walk-in shower, a stairlift, or other necessary modifications. This support is often provided 'in-kind', meaning the municipality arranges the work rather than giving the tenant the money.

Support for Income (UWV)

If a person's disability prevents them from working, their income support is managed by the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency). They may be eligible for a disability benefit (WIA-uitkering). This benefit is a form of income replacement. While it is not specifically a 'housing' allowance, this is the income that the person then uses to pay for all their living costs, including their rent.