Apply for Housing Allowance in Germany (Tenants)
Many tenants in Germany do not know that they may be entitled to housing allowance or how to complete the digital application correctly. This guide explains in simple steps which documents are needed, which deadlines apply and how decisions affect you. You will find concrete examples for typical households, notes on mandatory forms and where to find official forms online. We also explain when a WBS may be relevant and how housing allowance relates to social benefits. The goal is to give you clear actions as a tenant so you can submit the application securely and on time and avoid unnecessary follow-up questions with the housing allowance office. At the end you will find an FAQ and a step-by-step guide for the online application.
What is housing allowance?
Housing allowance is a state subsidy for households with low incomes to help cover housing costs. The legal basis is the Housing Allowance Act (WoFG).[1]
Who is eligible?
Generally, tenants and owners with low incomes can receive housing allowance if the reasonable burden is exceeded. Relevant factors are household income, rent amount and household size.
- Household income below certain limits
- Appropriate rent relative to the region
- No full social assistance covering housing costs
Which documents do you need?
Prepare the following proofs before starting the application. The housing allowance office often requires copies or uploads of documents.
- Completed housing allowance application (Wohngeldantrag of the responsible authority)
- Rental agreement and current rent certificate
- Proofs of income (pay slips, pension notice)
- Proofs of additional costs (e.g., heating costs statement)
Deadlines and processing time
Housing allowance is generally paid from the month the application is submitted. Submit early because processing can take several weeks. If documents are missing, the authority will request them.
How the digital application works
Many cities and districts offer an online form. You upload documents, fill in household details and submit the application electronically. Alternatively, the paper route via the housing allowance office is still available.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Submitting incomplete forms
- Missing or illegible proofs
- Not submitting documents within deadlines
Forms and examples
Name the form as follows: "housing allowance application" (official form). Many housing allowance offices also provide checklists or example completions. Typically you find the form on your city or district website; the content follows federal requirements under the WoFG.[1]
FAQ
- Who pays the housing allowance?
- The local housing allowance authority of your place of residence pays housing allowance according to the WoFG.
- Can I receive housing allowance retroactively?
- Housing allowance is generally paid only from the month of application onward; retroactive payments are possible only in exceptional cases.
- Which court has jurisdiction in disputes?
- Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local court (Amtsgericht); higher legal questions can reach the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).[3]
How-To
- Download forms or open your citys online portal and have login data ready.
- Digitize all required proofs (income, rental agreement, heating costs).
- Carefully fill out the housing allowance application and upload documents.
- Submit the application and keep the confirmation; observe deadlines.
- Contact the housing allowance office for questions and quickly provide missing documents.
Help and Support / Resources
- Wohngeld Act (WoFG) - Gesetze im Internet
- BGB § 535 ff. - Tenancy law
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions
