Benefits for families in Germany: child benefit, child supplement and housing benefit
Translated from the Arabic original. Read in Arabic
Many working families in Germany are entitled to benefits they never claim, either because they do not know they exist or because they think they are only for people out of work. In fact, several benefits are designed specifically for families who work but whose income does not cover their needs. This guide presents the most important ones and where to apply.
Child benefit (Kindergeld)
The basis for almost every family: a fixed monthly amount per child, regardless of income, paid until 18 and up to 25 if the child is in education or vocational training. You apply to the family benefits office (Familienkasse) of the Federal Employment Agency.
The child supplement (Kinderzuschlag)
An extra benefit for families whose income covers the parents’ needs but not all of the children’s. It is paid on top of child benefit and also claimed from the Familienkasse. Eligibility depends on family income and housing costs, with minimum and maximum income limits. The best way to find out whether you qualify is the online eligibility check on the Federal Employment Agency’s website, which takes a few minutes.
Housing benefit (Wohngeld)
State support towards rent, or the costs of an owner-occupied home, for families and individuals on limited incomes who do not receive benefits that include housing costs, such as Bürgergeld. The amount depends on household size, income and the rent level in your city. You apply at your municipality’s housing benefit office (Wohngeldstelle), and it is paid from the month you apply, so do not delay.
The education and participation package (Bildung und Teilhabe)
Families receiving the child supplement, housing benefit or Bürgergeld can get extra help for their children: school supplies, school trips, lunch at school or nursery, tutoring when needed, and a contribution to sports club and cultural activity fees. You apply at the municipality or the job centre, depending on your situation.
Do these benefits affect residence or citizenship?
Child benefit and parental allowance are not usually treated as reliance on social assistance in residence procedures, because they are linked to the family rather than to need. Means-tested benefits may be treated differently depending on the type of permit and benefit. If you plan to apply for a settlement permit or citizenship soon, ask a migration advice centre about your case before applying, and do not deprive your children of a legal entitlement because of an unconfirmed assumption.
Practical tip
Keep one folder with payslips, your tenancy agreement and your children’s birth certificates, because these documents are needed for every application. Social advice centres and migration advice centres offer free help with filling in the forms.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Laws change, so check the official sources below or the competent authority for your situation. Found a mistake? Tell us.