Income Limits for Tenant Families in Germany

Many tenant families in Germany wonder whether they qualify for social housing or a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). Checking income limits is an important first step: it determines whether you can apply for subsidized housing and which documents you must provide. This guide explains in clear language which rules apply in Germany, which documents to collect and how to submit the application. It also describes what to do if an application is denied, which deadlines apply and which authorities to contact. Legal terms are explained briefly so that you as a tenant family can better understand your rights and obligations.

What are income limits and why do they matter?

Income limits determine which households are eligible for subsidized social housing or a WBS. These limits depend on household size and are set by the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) and regional regulations.^[2] Parallel rules in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) apply for tenancy duties and rights, for example in cases of termination or rental defects.^[1]

Who counts as a household or tenant family?

Typically, a tenant family includes people living together in one household: parents with children, single parents with children or couples sharing finances. The total taxable income of all household members is used for the precise calculation.

• Household size (eligible): The number of people living together determines eligibility.
• Income documents (evidence): Provide pay slips, tax assessments and benefit certificates.
• Contact point (application): The municipality or housing office provides the specific WBS form.

Which forms and proofs do you need?

The exact list of documents is given by the responsible city or district. Common items are: pay slips, tax assessments, proof of child benefit or maintenance, and rental contracts. For the WBS application you use your municipality's form, usually titled "Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein" (WBS application). Explain your household composition in the form and attach the required documents.^[3]

• Identity proof (evidence): Attach ID card or passport.
• Income proofs (evidence): Current pay slips or tax assessment for the last 12 months.
• WBS application (application): Complete and sign the municipality form.

Deadlines and process for the WBS application

Processing time varies by municipality. Expect several weeks; some municipalities offer online applications, others require in-person submission. Submit all documents completely to avoid follow-up requests.

• Processing time (within): Expect 2–8 weeks for processing.
• Deadline for missing documents (calendar): Quickly submit missing documents to prevent delays or rejection.

What to do if the application is denied?

If your application is denied, request the written reasons and consider filing an objection or, within the deadline, pursuing legal action. Tenancy disputes such as termination or eviction are heard at local courts (Amtsgericht); appeals go to Landgericht and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[4][5]

Practical example: How to complete the WBS application

1. Gather documents (evidence): ID, pay slips, tax assessment.
2. Download and complete the form (application): Enter name, address, household members and signature.
3. Submit (contact): Upload online or hand in personally at the housing office.
4. Wait for decision (within): Note submission date and follow up on processing times.
5. Check decision (evidence): Note reasons on denial and ask for clarification if needed.
6. Consider legal steps (court): Seek advice or contact the local court for procedural options.

Help and Support / Resources

• WBS information at the Federal Ministry (contact): Check guidance on the federal website.
• Court jurisdictions and decisions (contact): Find information about Amtsgericht, Landgericht and BGH.
• Official laws online (contact): Access the full texts of BGB and WoFG.

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Bundesministerium für Wohnen, Stadtentwicklung und Bauwesen
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
5. [5] Justizportal: Informationen zu Gerichten und Formularen