Abnormal Multiple Rental Subsidy Applications from Same Address: National Land Agency to Refer All Violations for Investigation

Central News Agency report (Reporter Kao Hua-chien, Taipei, June 11) — The Ministry of the Interior's National Land Agency announced today that it has detected abnormal cases in which multiple individuals from the same address in certain counties and cities have applied for rental subsidies. If violations involving forged documents, identity impersonation, or tenancy facts that do not match reality are discovered, all such cases will be referred to judicial and police authorities for investigation. Subsidy eligibility will be legally revoked, and recipients will be required to return all subsidy funds.

In a press release, the National Land Agency stated that applications for the 2026 'NT$300 billion Expanded Rental Subsidy Program' have surpassed 1 million households as of the end of May, with over 854,000 households approved for subsidies. The program has significantly helped reduce housing burdens for residents, with as high as 70% of applicants expressing satisfaction with the rental subsidy policy.

The Agency explained that subletting is a common housing arrangement in the rental market. Since 2023, the rental subsidy program has relaxed eligibility criteria, allowing multiple tenants listed on the same lease agreement to apply individually for subsidies, thereby enhancing government support for renters.

However, the Agency has identified isolated cases of fraud, including forged lease agreements, multiple applications from the same address, and impersonation of family members. There are also cases where landlords use multiple tenant identities to fraudulently claim subsidies. The National Land Agency and local governments will continue to employ verification mechanisms and collaborate with judicial and police authorities. Any violations found will result in the legal revocation of subsidy eligibility and mandatory repayment of all funds, with no leniency.

Starting this year, to ensure rental safety, individuals residing in unregistered structures such as rooftop additions are no longer eligible for rental subsidies. Existing qualified households have a one-year grace period, allowing subsidies to continue until December 31, 2024. The Agency has notified affected households via SMS and provided information on rental management services through the subsidy website.

The Agency has also partnered with the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Social and Family Affairs Administration to assist approximately 400 vulnerable households under social supervision. Social workers have conducted home visits for around 80 households expressing willingness to relocate, offering legal rental options through leasing service providers. For the remaining vulnerable households, the National Land Agency will continue collaborating with the Ministry of Health and Welfare and local social welfare bureaus to guide and assist them in finding suitable and safe housing during the grace period. (Editor: Yang Lan-hsuan) 1150611