Apply for WBS: Tenant Guide in Germany
Many tenants in Germany wonder how to successfully apply for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) and provide correct proof. This article explains in practical terms which documents are required, which deadlines you should observe, and how the procedure works at the municipal level. We speak in clear language about income limits, typical proofs such as payslips and rental contracts, and about when an office or the local court may become involved. Tips help you prepare, and a compact checklist supports you in assembling the documents so that your WBS application is complete and plausible.
What is a WBS?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) entitles people in many municipalities to rent subsidized housing. The basis is the rules of the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) and housing law provisions; tenancy obligations arise additionally from the BGB.[2][1]
Who is eligible?
Eligibility is basically based on household size, income and local criteria. Municipalities may set additional requirements for apartment size or urgency. Always check local requirements before applying.
- Check your household income limits (eligible).
- Prepare the WBS application and fill out the municipal form (application).
- Collect proofs such as payslips, bank statements and the rental contract as proof.
- Pay attention to deadlines and appointments at the authority (calendar).
Which proofs do you need?
Typical proofs are payslips for the last three months, notices about social benefits, identity card or residence permit, and rental contract or registration confirmation. Some municipalities also require a household summary or bank statements; clarify open questions before submission.
- Payslips and proofs of social benefits to check income (rent).
- Identity card or residence permit as identity proof (proof).
- Rental contract or registration confirmation as housing proof (form).
How do you submit the application?
WBS applications are usually submitted online, by post or in person at the responsible housing office. Many cities offer a specific form; ask your city administration for the "WBS application (municipal form)". Submit fully completed documents to avoid queries and delays.
Rights in case of rejection and legal steps
If an application is rejected, you can file an objection or sue. Disputes about tenancy and questions about allocation of housing can be heard at the local court; for fundamental legal questions higher instances up to the Federal Court of Justice decide.[3]
FAQ
- What does a WBS application cost?
- Fees vary by municipality; often the application is free or involves a small administrative fee. Check with the responsible housing office.
- How long is a WBS valid?
- The validity period differs by federal state and notice, typically 1 to 2 years.
- Can I get help from the local court?
- The local court settles civil disputes in tenancy law; for WBS questions the municipal authority is primarily responsible, but courts can be involved in legal disputes.
Anleitung
- Obtain the municipal WBS form and read all instructions carefully (application).
- Collect proofs: payslips, notices, ID and rental contract (proof).
- Fill in the application completely and sign it personally (eligible).
- Submit the application on time and note confirmations of receipt (calendar).
- Contact the housing office if you have questions and document communications in writing (hotline).
Help and Support / Resources
- Gesetze im Internet: BGB (Tenancy law and obligations)
- Gesetze im Internet: WoFG (Housing promotion law)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – tenancy decisions
