In 2024, almost 2 million households, comprising 4.5 million individuals, could get extra financial support from the government. This supplement is available to both renters and homeowners with low to moderate incomes. The German government has reformed the Wohngeld system, a non-repayable subsidy, in response to increasing energy costs. The allowance is provided on a monthly basis.
Housing allowance in Germany
Wohngeld plays a crucial role in offering significant financial assistance, particularly to retirees and families, including single parents, who make up approximately half of its recipients. Families account for around 40 percent of those benefiting from this support. Similar to Bürgergeld, the Wohngeld housing allowance is provided in advance, enabling recipients to meet the expenses of renting an apartment at the start of each month.
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Payment dates of the housing allowance (Wohngeld)
Much like Bürgergeld, recipients receive the housing benefit in advance, enabling them to use the subsidy to pay their rent on the first day of each month. Here are the transfer dates:
| Month | Payout date |
| January 2024 | December 29, 2023 |
| February 2024 | January 31, 2024 |
| March 2024 | February 29, 2024 |
| April 2024 | March 29, 2024 |
| May 2024 | April 30, 2024 |
| June 2024 | May 31, 2024 |
| July 2024 | June 28, 2024 |
| August 2024 | July 31, 2024 |
| September 2024 | August 30, 2024 |
| October 2024 | September 30, 2024 |
| November 2024 | October 31, 2024 |
| December 2024 | November 29, 2024 |
| January 2025 | December 31, 2024 |
How much is the housing allowance (Wohngeld) in 2024?
The reform implemented last year also includes an increase in the Wohngeld amount. On average, the monthly allowance has risen by €190, reaching approximately €370. However, this amount is determined on an individual basis, considering factors such as the number of people in the household, income, and rental costs. To apply for Wohngeld, individuals should submit their application to the relevant municipal or city office, as reported by Merkur.de. Those wondering about their eligibility for the supplement can use the Wohngeld-Plus calculator, available on the website of the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development, and Construction.
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It’s important to note that individuals receiving Bürgergeld cannot simultaneously receive Wohngeld since housing costs are already covered by Bürgergeld. The same restriction applies to individuals receiving social security benefits in old age or due to incapacity for work.