Digital Wohngeld Calculator for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany look for quick help with housing allowance. The digital Wohngeld calculator makes an initial check easier, showing whether you may be eligible and which documents are required. This text explains step by step how to use the calculator securely, which documents (e.g. lease agreement, proof of income, registration certificate) to prepare and how to submit the application to the Wohngeld office. You will also find information on deadlines, common mistakes and the responsible authorities so you can better understand decisions. All guidance follows applicable law and refers to official sources and forms so that, as a tenant, you can act confidently and well prepared. Read on for practical checklists and examples.

How to use the Wohngeld calculator digitally

Start with a clear workspace: open the official Wohngeld calculator of your city or municipality and have the key documents ready. Enter accurate values for rent and income, otherwise the results may differ significantly. The calculator provides only an initial estimate; the binding decision is made by the Wohngeld office. For questions about rights and obligations, the rules in the Civil Code (BGB) and the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) are authoritative.^[1][2]

Data protection and security

Only enter personal data on secure pages (https) and where the Wohngeld office or an official municipal site is named. Do not save passwords in the browser when using shared devices.

Required documents

• Lease agreement (full copy) — to prove which costs count as rent.
• Proof of income (pay slips, unemployment benefit decisions) — usually for the last three months.
• Proof of rent payments (receipts or bank statements).
• Registration certificate (residents' registration office) or ID copy.
• Statements on operating and heating costs if not shown in the lease.

Typical deadlines

Submit the application as early as possible after need arises; processing time varies by municipality. Appeals against decisions usually must be filed within one month — check the exact deadline on the decision.^[3]

FAQ

Can I use the Wohngeld calculator anonymously?

Yes, many calculators allow an anonymous initial estimate; however, the application itself requires personal documents.

Which authority decides the application?

The Wohngeld office of your city or municipality makes the binding decision on the application.

What happens if information is incorrect?

Incorrect information can lead to repayments; report changes in income or housing situation to the Wohngeld office immediately.

How-To

1. Collect documents: lease agreement, proofs of income and registration certificate.
2. Use the online calculator: enter values carefully and save the result.
3. Fill out the application: complete the form of the Wohngeld office and attach documents.
4. Submit: send the application in person, by mail or electronically to the Wohngeld office and keep proof of receipt.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — Gesetze im Internet
• [3] Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building (BMWSB)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: WoFG
3. [3] BMWSB: Information on housing