Digital Appeal for Denials – Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the problem that applications for housing allowance or rent subsidies are digitally denied even when there are no clear errors. In this article I explain in plain language how to file an electronic appeal, which official forms and proofs are important, and which deadlines must be observed. You will learn the role of the Civil Code (§§ 535–580a BGB) and courts such as the local court (Amtsgericht), how to systematically collect evidence and which authorities to contact. The goal is to give you concrete steps so you can enforce your rights as a tenant in Germany quickly and securely. I also explain how to calculate deadlines, use template texts for the appeal and when going to court makes sense. I list practical links and official forms so you can start the process digitally.

What to do when the digital denial arrives?

First check: read the decision carefully and note the date of delivery. Check whether reasons are given that you can easily refute (e.g. missing proofs). Often a supplementary proof or a short appeal is enough to correct the decision.^[1][2]

• Check deadlines: appeals are usually due within one month of delivery.
• Gather evidence: emails, bank statements, rental contract, photos and names of contacts document.
• Write appeal: short, factual, with request and date; informal is possible or use the housing allowance office's form.
• Contact authority: use the online portal or call the housing allowance office and request confirmation of submission.
• If necessary: prepare legal steps at the local court if the authority rejects the appeal.

An informal appeal is sufficient in many cases, but a structured text with evidence increases the chances. Include date, decision number, your contact details and a short explanation why the decision is incorrect.

How to file an appeal digitally?

1. Check the deadline: determine the delivery date and calculate the monthly deadline.
2. Collect documents: scan rental contract, bank statements, correspondence, photos and proofs.
3. Create the appeal: name, address, decision number, date, reasoning and signature (for electronic submission possibly as scan or signed PDF).
4. Transmission: use the upload form of the responsible housing allowance office, the municipal portal or send by e-mail/PDF with send and receipt confirmation.
5. Documentation: save proof of sending and confirmations; note contacts and times.
6. Next steps: if the appeal is rejected, prepare for file inspection and consider litigation at the administrative or local court.

Many municipalities now offer upload forms for appeals; check your town's website or ask by phone for the preferred channel. If you are unsure whether a formal error exists, a short legal consultation or consumer advice can help.

FAQ

How long do I have to file the appeal?

Usually one month after delivery of the decision; the exact deadline is in the decision. Check the delivery date immediately.

Does the appeal have to be written or is e-mail enough?

Many authorities accept e-mail or online forms, but a qualified electronic signature or a scan with signature is often recommended.

What happens if the appeal is rejected?

You can file a lawsuit; usually the administrative or local court decides first, and later possibly the regional court or Federal Court.

How-To

1. Read the decision and note the deadline.
2. Collect all proofs and digitize them.
3. Create the appeal text and attach documents.
4. Upload via portal or send by e-mail and request confirmation of receipt.
5. If rejected, request file inspection and consider legal action.

Help and Support / Resources

• Wohnen: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – rules on rent subsidies
• Federal Court (BGH) – rulings and case law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) Rulings