Can Landlords Get Housing Allowance in Sweden?

As a tenant in Sweden, it is natural to wonder who can receive housing allowance and whether a landlord can ever be the recipient. Housing allowance is primarily a needs-tested benefit for the person living in the dwelling, often paid to the tenant or the person on the lease, and is governed by benefit rules and the housing allowance system.^[1] If someone other than the tenant claims the right to the benefit, disputes may need to be examined by the Rent Tribunal or by authorities.^[2] In this guide we explain the conditions, example amounts and the steps you can take as a tenant in Sweden.^[3] We describe common situations, for example when a landlord receives temporary compensations, when the allowance follows the person and what you should document to protect your rights. The text is neutral and practical, with advice on how to check decisions and where to get help.

What is housing allowance?

Housing allowance is a financial support primarily aimed at persons or households that need help covering housing costs. The allowance is usually tied to the person living in the apartment and who is on the lease or registered at the address. The amount depends on income, housing cost and household composition.

Can the landlord get housing allowance?

In normal cases it is not the landlord but the tenant who applies for and receives housing allowance. Exceptions can occur in specific situations, such as when someone else administers payments on behalf of a resident or in special solutions for institutional housing. If a landlord claims to have received allowance for a residence where the tenant is deemed entitled, the decision may require review.

How to review a decision

If you suspect errors or ambiguities about who received housing allowance, follow these steps to protect your rights and prepare for a possible appeal or report.

1. Request a copy of the decision and documentation from the person who claims to have received the allowance.
2. Keep lease agreements, rent receipts and correspondence that show who actually lives in the dwelling.
3. Contact the Swedish Social Insurance Agency (Försäkringskassan) to request information or correction if a payment appears incorrect.^[1]
4. If necessary, report the dispute to the Rent Tribunal (Hyresnämnden) for examination or seek legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a landlord receive housing allowance for my apartment?

Typically no; housing allowance is paid to the person who lives in the apartment and is on the lease. Exceptions exist but are uncommon and require special investigation.

What do I do if someone receives the allowance incorrectly?

Keep evidence, contact Försäkringskassan and consider taking the case to the Rent Tribunal if you do not get clarity.

What amounts can I expect?

The amount varies based on income, housing cost and household size; Försäkringskassan calculates individually.

How to (step-by-step)

1. Collect lease agreements, receipts and correspondence that show who lives in the dwelling.
2. Contact Försäkringskassan to check payments and request correction if needed.^[1]
3. If you receive no response or the dispute continues, file an application with the Rent Tribunal for review.^[2]
4. In cases of unpaid rent or enforcement, the Enforcement Authority (Kronofogden) may become involved; keep all documentation for the case.^[3]

Key takeaways

• Housing allowance is normally tied to the person living in the home.
• Always keep lease and payment records if you suspect incorrect payments.
• Contact authorities early to correct or check decisions.

Help and support / Resources

• Contact: Rent Tribunal — domstol.se
• Information: Swedish Code of Statutes (Jordabalken Ch. 12) — riksdagen.se
• Guidance: Enforcement Authority — kronofogden.se

1. [1] Riksdagen: Jordabalken (12 kap.)
2. [2] Domstol.se: Hyresnämnden och myndighetsinformation
3. [3] Kronofogden: Indrivning och verkställighet