Appeal Checklist for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany receive rejection notices for housing benefit (Wohngeld) or rent supplements and are unsure how to respond. This guide is aimed at single parents and other tenants who want to file an appeal quickly and securely. It explains in plain language which documents are important, which deadlines apply, and which phrases are helpful in a written appeal. We also show when going to the local court (Amtsgericht) makes sense and which legal bases you should know. The goal is to give you practical steps and official contacts so you can effectively assert your rights in Germany. At the end you will find an FAQ, a step-by-step guide for filing the appeal and notes on forms and official contacts.

What to check now

First, examine the rejection notice carefully: who decided, which notice was issued and what the legal remedy instruction says. Pay special attention to the deadline for appeal and the reasoning of the denial. Rental law provisions of the BGB can be relevant^[1], and procedural rules for lawsuits are found in the ZPO^[2]. If there are precedents, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice may be relevant^[3].

Important documents

• Documents: Copy of the rejection notice
• Proofs: Income and rent documents from recent months
• Form/Letter: Written appeal draft with signature
• Evidence: Photos, bank statements or other proofs
• Payment proof: Receipts or transfer evidence for rent payments

Deadlines and timing

• Check deadline: The legal remedy instruction usually states within how many days you must file an appeal.
• Within 30 days: A 30-day deadline is common; check the notice carefully.
• Return time: Allow time for postal delivery or hand in the appeal in person.

How to phrase the appeal

An appeal should be brief, factual and signed. State your name, address, the file number of the notice, the date of the notice and say that you are filing an appeal. Briefly explain why the decision is incorrect in your view and attach supporting documents.

Sample text (short)

• Hereby I file an appeal against the notice dated [date], file number [file number]. Reason: [brief reason]. Attachments: [list of attachments].

Next steps if the appeal is denied

If the appeal is denied, the next step is often filing a lawsuit at the local court or the competent social court, depending on the type of notice. Procedural rules are in the ZPO and social law^[2]. In many cases, early advice from a counseling center or legal representative is advisable.

FAQ

How long do I have to file an appeal?

This is stated in the legal remedy instruction of your notice; it is often 30 days, so check the date carefully.

Do I need a special form?

There is usually no standard form; a written, signed appeal with file number and reasoning is sufficient.

What does an appeal cost?

The appeal itself is usually free. Costs may arise if the case goes to court.

How-To

1. Check the deadline and gather documents.
2. Write and sign the appeal letter.
3. Attach all relevant evidence and make copies.
4. Submit the appeal by registered mail or in person at the responsible office.
5. If denied, consider filing a lawsuit at the competent court.

Key takeaways

• Deadlines are crucial; do not miss them.
• A clear, signed appeal with attachments often suffices.
• Seek early support from counseling centers or the court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI)
• Justice portal of the federal and state governments
• Gesetze im Internet: BGB

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof: Decisions