Check Housing Benefit & Rent for Single Parents in Germany

Single-parent tenants in Germany often ask whether they qualify for housing benefit or a rent subsidy. This article explains in plain language who is eligible, which documents are required and how to submit an application. It covers common deadlines, the necessary forms such as the housing benefit application and frequent mistakes that can delay processing. We also explain what to do if an application is denied, which deadlines apply for appeals and lawsuits, and which courts are competent. Practical examples help plan the steps and make it more likely you will successfully assert your rights.

Who is eligible for housing benefit?

Housing benefit is aimed at households with low to moderate incomes who cannot fully cover their rent. For single parents, income, household size and local customary rent are taken into account. Specific entitlement rules are governed by housing promotion law^[2]. Example: a single mother with a young child and low income may receive a rent subsidy depending on the city if the rent is reasonable and total income is below the thresholds.

Important deadlines and forms

The central form is the housing benefit application; it must be submitted to the housing benefit office of the municipality. Submit the application as complete as possible with all attachments to avoid processing delays. Forms and local instructions are provided by your municipality or official state portals.

• Lease agreement as proof of the rental relationship.
• Proof of income (pay slips, maintenance payments).
• Rent receipts or bank statements to confirm rent payments.
• Proof of number and age of children (birth certificates).

Form names and practical example

The common form name is "housing benefit application"; municipalities may provide their own PDF forms. Example: complete the form, attach the last three pay slips and a copy of the lease, and send everything to your citys housing benefit office.

What to do in case of rejection or delay?

If the decision is negative, check the reasoning immediately. You can file an objection against an administrative act; if necessary, litigation before the competent courts is possible. Rules for lawsuits and eviction cases follow, among others, the Code of Civil Procedure^[3], and tenancy disputes are handled by local courts (Amtsgericht)^[4].

1. File an objection within the deadline and explain the reasons.
2. Collect and organize all documents and payment records.
3. Consider filing a lawsuit at the competent local court if necessary.
4. Observe deadlines: missing them can result in losing rights.

FAQ

Can I get housing benefit if I am a single parent?

Yes, single parents may be eligible if income and rent meet the calculation; check the income limits in housing law.^[2]

Do I have to present the rental agreement?

Yes, the lease is usually proof of the rental relationship and the amount of rent.

Where do I turn if I disagree with the decision?

An objection to the responsible authority is the first step; for court proceedings, local courts are competent.^[3]

How-To

1. Gather documents: lease, income proofs, rent receipts and child documents.
2. Complete the housing benefit application fully (municipal form).
3. Submit the application to your citys housing benefit office in person, by post or online.
4. Check the decision and file an objection within the deadline if rejected.

Help and Support

• Contact your city or municipalitys housing benefit office for the local form.
• Federal information on housing promotion law for legal basics.
• Federal Court (Bundesgerichtshof) for information on court decisions in tenancy matters.

1. [1] §§ 535–580a BGB – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
4. [4] Information on the court system (local court) – Justice Portal