Housing Benefit for Tenants in Germany – WG Digital
Many tenants in Germany, including shared flat (WG) residents, do not know whether they are entitled to housing benefit or how the digital application works. This guide explains clearly who is eligible, which documents typical WG constellations require and how to submit the application online or by e-mail. You will find practical advice on deadlines, calculation of eligible rent and tips for dividing costs within the WG. The aim is that you as a tenant can check your entitlement, identify missing documents and prepare the digital application so that the housing benefit office can decide quickly. Legal bases and official forms are named so you can go directly to the responsible office.[1]
Who can receive housing benefit?
Housing benefit is a state subsidy for tenants with low incomes. In WGs, the individual composition of income and household determines entitlement. For separate households within one apartment, the housing benefit office must examine whether multiple households exist or a single need-based community is present. The legal basis is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) and the exact responsibility lies with your municipal housing benefit office.[1]
Which documents do WG residents need?
- Proof of income (pay slips, BAföG, child benefit) of the applicants.
- Rental contract or written subleases showing your shares of rent and utilities.
- Bank statements and recent rent payments as proof of actual payment.
- Identity card or registration certificate of all persons registered in the household.
If roommates pay rent proportionally, advise the housing benefit office to provide separate sublease agreements or payment receipts to clarify the individual burden.
What to check before the digital application
- Check deadlines: submit missing documents within the deadline set by the housing benefit office.
- Ensure all incomes are reported correctly, including minor earnings.
- Use the official forms of your city or municipality for the application.
Many municipalities now accept fully electronic applications via online form or e-mail; check your municipality's website for the procedure and upload requirements for attachments.
Common problems and how to solve them
- Unclear rent shares in WGs: provide sublease agreements or transfer receipts to evidence the distribution.
- Questions about jurisdiction: contact the local housing benefit office early to avoid delays.
- Income changes: report income changes immediately, as this affects benefit amounts.
FAQ
- Can all WG residents submit a joint application?
- No. It depends on whether the WG counts as one household or multiple households. Often each person files a separate application if separate households exist.
- Which forms does the housing benefit office require?
- The central form is the "Wohngeldantrag" (housing benefit application) provided by your municipal housing benefit office; additional attachments on income and the rental contract are required.
- How long does the decision take?
- Processing times vary by municipality. Expect several weeks; complete documentation speeds up the process.
How-To: Apply for housing benefit digitally
- Check jurisdiction: verify the responsibility of your housing benefit office on your city or municipality website and download the form.
- Gather documents: collect income and rent proofs of all affected persons (pay slips, transfers, rental contract).
- Fill in the form: complete the digital form carefully and scan all attachments as PDFs according to municipal guidelines.
- Submit the application: send it online or by e-mail and note the submission date; request confirmation of receipt.
- Wait for the decision: if asked for additional documents, respond immediately within the deadline.
Help and Support
- Wohngeldgesetz (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
- Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a – Tenancy law
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Official site
