Housing Benefit 2025: Tips for Tenants in Germany

Many older tenants and shared-flat residents in Germany are unsure whether and how they can receive housing benefit. This guide explains in plain language which requirements apply, which forms are required and how to complete applications correctly. It is aimed at pensioners, part-time workers and shared households and describes in practical terms how to check entitlement, collect income proofs and find the responsible authorities. We also show which deadlines must be observed, which sample texts are useful and which official bodies help in disputes. The goal is to give you, as a tenant in Germany, step-by-step legally secure tools and templates.

What is housing benefit?

Housing benefit is a state benefit to support housing costs in Germany. It is calculated under the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz and serves to relieve lower incomes. The exact calculation and municipal responsibilities are governed by the law.^[2]

Who can apply for housing benefit?

• Pensioners with low income
• A member of a shared flat who pays rent proportionally
• Households with low or interrupted income

Forms and documentation

You usually obtain the housing benefit application from your city or municipal administration. Typical proofs are the lease, recent rent payments, pension and income statements and bank statements. For tenancy law questions about obligations and repairs, the BGB applies.^[1] In rental disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent in the first instance; appeals go to the district court (Landgericht), and the BGH may decide on leading cases.^[3]

How-To

1. Check if your income is below the calculation threshold and whether roommates are taken into account.
2. Collect the lease, proofs of rent and utilities and income documents.
3. Complete the housing benefit form of your municipality in full and sign it.
4. Submit the application in person or by post and note the receipt date.
5. Keep copies of all documents and the decision; set deadlines in case of objection.

FAQ

Can a shared flat (WG) apply for housing benefit together?

Yes, shared-flat residents can receive proportional housing benefit if the rent and household allocation are documented.

How long does processing of the housing benefit application take?

Processing varies by municipality, usually several weeks; missing documents extend the time.

Do I have to report rent increases or repairs to keep housing benefit?

Changes to rent or significant income changes must be reported to the authority as they affect entitlement.

Help and Support

• Civil Code (BGB) – Tenancy law
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – Housing Benefit
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Information on case law