Applying for WBS: Tenant Tips in Germany

Many students in Germany look for affordable housing and may need a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This text explains step by step which requirements tenants must meet, which documents authorities request and how to correctly fill out the application. You will receive practical advice on deadlines, proof of income, required forms and tips on how to demonstrate WBS eligibility successfully even without a lawyer. The goal is for you as a tenant to proceed through the process more confidently, avoid mistakes and find social housing faster. Read the checklist, examples of proofs and learn which offices are responsible and which official forms are used.

What is the WBS and who is eligible?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is an official document that confirms you have entitlement to subsidised housing. The municipal housing offices are responsible; the legal basis for housing promotion is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[2]. Tenancy law duties and rights are additionally regulated by provisions of the BGB, for example §§ 535–580a^[1], which are relevant for questions about rent, landlord obligations and rent reductions.

Requirements and proofs

In the application you must attach typical proofs. The exact income limits and household sizes vary by federal state and municipality.

• Proofs of income (pay slips, BAföG notice; evidence).
• Identity card or registration certificate.
• Enrollment certificate for students.
• Proofs about previous housing situation or rental contract.

What authorities check

The authority checks household income, household size and compliance with local income limits. Deadlines must be observed: an application should be submitted well before a planned move-in date, as processing can take several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a WBS?

Households with limited income in principle; students can be eligible if their income situation meets the funding criteria.

How long is a WBS valid?

Validity varies by issuance (often one to two years). Check the date on the notice.

Can I apply for the WBS online?

Many municipalities offer online applications; check your city or municipality service portal.

How-To

1. Inform yourself at your city housing office about requirements and the application (form).
2. Collect all proofs: identity, enrollment, proofs of income (evidence).
3. Submit the application early because processing times vary (deadline).
4. Wait for the decision; if denied, check the reasoning and possible objection deadlines.
5. Once you have the WBS, apply specifically for social housing and attach copies of the WBS.

Deadlines, decision and objections

The decision often contains a deadline for objection or for submitting missing documents. If a decision is negative, there are remedies under civil procedure and administrative processes; for tenancy disputes, local courts are usually competent and civil procedure rules apply^[3].

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Submitting incomplete documents (warning): Authorities often request further documents.
• Missing deadlines (deadline): Deadlines for objection or submission can be short.
• Incorrect income statements (important): Inaccurate information leads to delays or repayments.

Help & Support

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535ff
• Gesetze im Internet: WoFG
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet