Your payment day depends on one digit
Kindergeld is not paid to every family on the same day. The Familienkasse spreads the transfers over the month by the last digit of your Kindergeld number (the “Endziffer”): families with 0 are paid first, families with 9 last.
Your Kindergeld number is on the approval letter (Bescheid) from the Familienkasse and in the reference line of every payment on your bank statement. It looks like 123FK456789; the last digit (here 9) sets your day.
How much is Kindergeld in 2026?
Kindergeld is 259 € a month for every child since 1 January 2026 (it was 255 €). The increase is paid automatically, no new application needed. It is paid until the child turns 18, and up to 25 during studies or vocational training.
Why is my Kindergeld late?
If your day falls on a weekend or public holiday, the money may reach your account a day or two later, and some banks only credit transfers in the evening. The Familienkasse states that there is no legal right to a particular day. If it is more than a week late, check your post for a letter asking for documents (for example a school certificate for a child over 18) or call the free hotline 0800 4 555533.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find the last digit?
It is the last digit of the Kindergeld number on the Familienkasse letter and on your bank statement, like 9 in 123FK456789.
Are the dates the same every year?
No. They change every month and every year. We update the table from the official Familienkasse calendar, and you can add all dates to your phone calendar with one tap.
Can I get Kindergeld as a foreigner?
Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland who live or work in Germany usually can. Other nationalities usually need a residence permit that allows work; some permits are excluded. The Familienkasse decides each case.
Is the first payment for the whole month?
Yes. The Familienkasse pays the full month even if the entitlement starts at the end of it, for example for a baby born on 30 March.
Sources
Dates come from the official Familienkasse calendar; your bank or a public holiday can delay the credit by a day or two. Disclaimer.