Check Income Limits 2025 for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany wonder whether their income still qualifies for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) or subsidized social housing in 2025. This article explains step by step how to check your income limits, which proofs landlords or authorities may require and which legal rules apply. I show which forms are important, how to assemble documents correctly and where to find official information. There are also practical tips on how to file an objection or seek support in disputes. Language is kept clear so that, as a tenant, you can better assert your rights in Germany.

Check income limits: What counts as income?

Countable income usually includes regular receipts such as wages, pensions, maintenance payments and certain social benefits; one-off payments may be treated separately. For exact legal classification, the provisions of the Civil Code and the Housing Promotion Act are decisive^[1][2]. As a practical rule: add up all regular gross income and then check the threshold values applicable in your municipality.

Important forms

• WBS application: Form at your municipality to prove that you meet the income limit.^[3]
• Housing benefit application: Relevant if you want to check whether a housing allowance is an alternative to a social apartment.

When the authority requests documents

Authorities or landlords may request evidence; respond in a structured and complete way to avoid delays. Submit only the requested documents and ensure personal data is transmitted only in the required form.

• Respond within the stated deadline, usually 14–30 days, to avoid disadvantages.
• Collect proofs such as payslips, bank statements and official notices in chronological order.

Rights, courts and dispute resolution

If there is a dispute about income declarations or rejection of an application, local courts (Amtsgerichte) are responsible for many tenancy cases; higher instances include regional courts and, in rare cases, the Federal Court of Justice. The Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies to procedural rules. Seek advice early and check formal deadlines before filing a lawsuit.

FAQ

Who can apply for a WBS?

Generally persons and households whose income is below the municipal income limits; exact criteria and the application process are regulated by the responsible municipality.

Which documents are usually required?

Usually payslips, bank statements, notices about social benefits and possibly rental contracts; you will receive the exact list with the application.

What can I do if my application is rejected?

You can file an objection and, if necessary, consider legal action before the competent local court; obtain legal advice for this.

How-To

1. Determine your gross and net income for the relevant months.
2. Collect proofs: payslips, bank statements, official notices.
3. Submit the WBS application to your municipality or file documents with the housing promotion office.
4. If in dispute: contact the local court or an advice centre and consider legal steps.

Help and Support

• BGB — Civil Code: tenancy provisions
• WoFG — Housing Promotion Act
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — tenancy decisions

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) — §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)
3. [3] Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) — example and application on Berlin.de