Appeal Against Wohngeld Denial: Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face denials of housing benefit or rent subsidy applications. Single parents especially need clear, practical steps to file an appeal and limit financial strain. This guide explains plainly when an appeal makes sense, which deadlines apply, which documents and evidence you should collect, and how to draft an effective appeal letter. We also show when a court may become involved, which authorities are responsible and which sample forms exist. The goal is to give you concrete action steps so you can effectively assert your rights as a tenant in Germany and avoid unnecessary mistakes. At the end you will find checklists, contact addresses and sample texts for your appeal.

Steps before appealing

Before filing an appeal, first read the decision carefully: who made the decision, what reasons are given for the denial, and what deadline applies for the appeal^[3]? Compile all evidence (income documents, rental agreement, bank statements) and note relevant dates.

• Check the deadline: Usually the appeal period is one month from service of the decision.
• Gather documents: rental contract, proof of income and expenses and previous decisions.
• Prepare the appeal letter: concise, clear reasoning and attach supporting documents.
• Send: by registered mail or deliver in person with receipt confirmation.

Forms and templates

There is usually no binding federal form for the appeal; many housing benefit offices accept a simple written appeal with a clear explanation. The housing benefit application and evidence are provided by your responsible housing benefit office. In the appeal letter, state your contact details, the reference number from the decision and attach copies of the evidence^[3].

What to do if the authority refuses

If the appeal is rejected, the decision will state further legal remedies and deadlines. In some cases the next step is a lawsuit before the competent local court or social court; check jurisdiction and procedural deadlines in time under the rules of civil procedure^[2]. For the legal basis on landlord and tenant duties, see the relevant provisions in the BGB^[1].

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the deadline: Late submissions are often disregarded.
• Incomplete evidence: Missing income proofs weaken your case.
• Unclear reasoning: Specify clearly why the denial is incorrect.

FAQ

How long do I have to file an appeal?

The deadline is stated in the decision; for housing benefit decisions the appeal period is usually one month from service of the decision^[3].

Do I need a form?

Often a simple written appeal with clear reasoning and evidence is sufficient; check the guidance from your housing benefit office.

Who decides in a dispute?

In administrative and social law the social courts or local courts are often responsible; higher precedents come from the BGH or Federal Social Court^[4].

How-To

1. Read the decision and note the deadline.
2. Collect all relevant documents and evidence.
3. Write the appeal, attach copies and explain the error in the decision.
4. Submit the appeal by registered mail or in person with confirmation of receipt.
5. If rejected, note the file number and deadlines and consider legal advice or court action.

Help and Support / Resources

• Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) – Legal text
• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Official site

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) — Gesetze im Internet
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Official Website