Housing Benefit Mistakes for Tenants in Germany

Many older tenants in Germany live in shared flats (WGs) or share costs. Mistakes when applying for housing benefit or incorrect information about flatmates can jeopardize entitlements. This text explains in plain language common errors, which proofs are necessary, which deadlines to observe and how tenants of retirement age in a WG should act formally correctly. The following guidance lists concrete steps, official forms and responsible authorities so that you can protect your rights and avoid unnecessary repayments.

Common Housing Benefit Mistakes

Authorities and courts frequently see these mistakes among retirees in WGs. Avoid the points below and document all statements.

• Filing the application too late or missing deadlines.
• Incomplete or unsupported documents (rental agreement, bank statements, proofs about flatmates).
• Incorrect declaration of income, rent or utilities.
• Unclear division of rent within the WG and not documenting it in writing.
• Not responding to authority notices and missing deadlines for objection or legal action.

Important Forms and When to Use Them

Relevant forms typically include the "application for housing benefit" (Wohngeld application) and evidence forms for income and rent. Examples: The Wohngeld application is submitted to the local housing benefit office or housing authority; request a confirmation of receipt. If your living situation changes, report it immediately in writing.

Practical example: Mr. K. lives in a 3-person WG, is a retiree and applies for housing benefit. He submits the rental agreement with all signatures, bank statements for the last three months and a breakdown of his share of the rent. Without these proofs, the application can be rejected or reclaimed later.

Avoid Specific Mistakes

• No or incorrect information about the living situation (e.g., who is named in the lease).
• Missing proofs of income, pension or maintenance payments.
• Ignoring deadlines for queries or objections.

FAQ

Who decides on housing benefit entitlements?

The local housing benefit office (Wohnungsamt) decides on entitlement and amount; in case of dispute the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible.^[1]

Do I have to state the entire rent as a WG member?

State your actual share of the rent and the contractual situation. If necessary, attach a written cost allocation of the WG.

What should I do if the authority reclaims housing benefit?

Check the reasoning, provide missing proofs and consider filing an objection within the deadline; seek legal help if needed.^[2]

How-To

1. Check whether you meet the requirements for housing benefit (address, pension receipt, household size).
2. Gather proofs: rental contract, bank statements, pension notice, current utility bill.
3. Complete the housing benefit application fully and sign it.
4. Submit the application on time to the housing benefit office and obtain a confirmation of receipt.
5. If a reclaim or refusal occurs, file an objection within the deadline or consult the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Complete documentation prevents later repayment demands.
• Deadlines and formal requirements are decisive.
• Document WG rent shares in writing.

Help and Support / Resources

• Wohngeld Act (WoFG) — Gesetze im Internet
• Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• Justice Portal — Information on Courts
• Housing benefit application example (Berlin) — Service Berlin

1. [1] Wohngeld Act (WoFG) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Justice Portal — Information on Courts
4. [4] Housing benefit application (Berlin) — Service Berlin