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Housing allowance in Germany (Wohngeld): questions and answers about the possibility and method of applying

The Wohngeld housing allowance is not a state benefit or handout, but rather an allowance for all residents of Germany who meet certain requirements.

Housing allowance in Germany (Wohngeld) can be granted to people who rent an apartment as well as to property owners. Here are some questions and answers that immigrants residing in Germany or refugees in Germany ask about obtaining this allowance and its monetary value:

How much is the housing allowance?

According to German law, the amount of the Wohnegeld allowance depends on the number of people in the family and the income of the family. In 2020, the average family was getting 120 to 194 euros per month. Here are some examples:

  • A family with two children
    The father earns a total of 1,600 euros and the mother 450 euros per month. The monthly rent in their apartment is 700 euros. The family receives family allowances for kindergarten. Under the current law, they are entitled to a housing allowance of 194 per month.
  • Single mother with two children
    A mother with two children, whose monthly income is 1,400 euros and monthly rent is 520 euros, can get about 187 euros in housing allowance.
  • Even people who live alone are entitled to Wohnegeld Allowance
    Example: A pensioner with a monthly pension of 950€ and rental income of 510€ can get 120€ of housing allowance

How long is the housing allowance in Germany Wohngeld paid?

Basically, this allowance is given for a period of 12 months, but depending on the economic situation of the applicant it can be extended or shortened.

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Calculate the amount of the housing allowance?

There are many websites that allow you to calculate the amount of the Wohnegeld allowance based on your income.
Example: https://www. wohngeldrechner.nrw.de/wg/wgrbhtml/WGRBSTRTAr

Where can I get more information about submitting an application?

All the information and forms needed to apply for Wohngeld housing allowance in Wohngeldbehörde are available in the municipality.

What are the documents required to apply for housing allowance in Germany Wohngeld?

You will receive a list of the documents that you must attach to the application at your municipality office. In most federal states, the following is required:

  • Mietzuschuss request
  • Rental certificate Mietbescheinigung – find the form HERE:
  • Verdienstbescheinigung https: //www.verdienstbescheinigung – find the form HERE.
  • Photocopy of family members’ identity documents
  • Payroll for the past three months
  • Lease
  • Proof of bank receipt of rent payments for the last 3 months

Wohnegeld housing allowance and other government payments:

Many wonder if it is possible to receive a housing allowance, if they already receive other allowances from the German state. Here is the answer:
Kindergeld and Kinderzuschlag family alternatives

When you apply for housing allowance in Germany Wohngeld, you must declare your other benefits. Parents who work in Germany receive family allowances. Most children receive Kindergeld and many receive Kinderzuschlag. None of these benefits are included in your family’s income, so they are not an obstacle to claiming a housing allowance.

Source: https://www.wohngeld.org/