Housing Benefit for Single Parents in Germany – Tenant Guide

As a single-parent tenant in Germany, it is important to know which documents and deadlines apply when applying for housing benefit. Many single parents are eligible for rent subsidy, but applications often fail due to missing proofs or missed deadlines. This guide explains in plain language which forms you need, how to prove income and household size, where to submit the application and which deadlines to observe. You will also find practical examples of how to prepare proofs, which authorities are responsible and how to prepare for a possible administrative process. The information is based on legal foundations and typical procedures in German municipalities.

What you need for the application

Before filling out the housing benefit application, it is best to collect all relevant documents. Keep copies ready and store originals safely.

• Proofs of income (pay slips, unemployment benefits notice, maintenance payments)
• Rental contract and current landlord rent confirmation
• Identity card or residence permit of all household members
• Child's birth certificate or custody proof
• Proofs of other costs (benefit receipts, childcare fees, maintenance)
• Bank statements from recent months for household review
• Power of attorney if another person files the application

Forms and dealing with the housing benefit office

The central document is the "Application for Housing Benefit (Wohngeldantrag)", supplemented by annexes on household members and income. You can obtain specific forms at your municipal housing benefit office; many cities offer PDFs on their authority pages. Submit the fully completed application in person, by post or, if available, online. Practical example: A single mother submits the completed application with three pay slips, the child’s birth certificate and the rental contract so the amount of housing benefit can be determined.

Rights and duties in the tenancy are governed by the Civil Code, for example regarding maintenance obligations and rent payment duties.^[1] The legal basis for housing benefit is found in the Housing Promotion Act (Wohnraumförderungsgesetz).^[2]

Deadlines and processing time

Apply for housing benefit as early as possible. Processing time varies by municipality; if the authority requests additional documents, respond within the stated deadline (often 2–4 weeks). If documents are missing, the housing benefit office will typically ask for supplements; missed deadlines can lead to rejection or delays.

FAQ

Who can apply for housing benefit?

All tenants or owner-occupier households with low income; single-parent households are often eligible if income and rent meet the requirements.

Where do I submit the application?

At the housing benefit office of your city or municipality; many municipalities also offer an online application or form download.

What happens in case of rejection?

In case of rejection you will receive a written decision with reasons. You can file an objection within the specified period and, if necessary, bring an action before the competent local court.^[3]

How-To

1. Collect all documents (income, rental contract, IDs, birth certificates).
2. Fill out the official housing benefit application or get help at the housing benefit office.
3. Submit the application to your municipality (in person, by mail or online).
4. Keep track of mail and deadlines and respond quickly to requests for additional information.
5. If rejected, check the reasoning, file an objection or seek legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Official legal texts
• Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) – Legal text on housing benefit
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Judgments and information

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)