Income Limits for Students: Tenants in Germany

Many students in Germany wonder whether their income excludes them from access to social housing or state support. As a tenant or subtenant you should know how income limits for the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) and housing allowance (Wohngeld) are calculated, which proofs landlords or authorities may require and which rights you have under tenancy law (BGB)^[1]. This article explains clearly which limits apply, which forms are needed and which steps you can take as a tenant when applying for assistance or filing an objection. Practical examples and tips about deadlines, documents and authorities help with your next application.

What applies to income limits?

Income limits are used to determine who is eligible for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) or housing allowance. The rules are set out in the Housing Promotion Act and vary by program and federal state^[2]. For students, personal income, BAföG benefits and possibly maintenance payments are usually counted; scholarships or certain grants may be assessed differently. As a tenant, check the exact values with your city or district office.

Key points

• Check forms: Submit the WBS application, income proofs and other required documents completely.
• Calculate housing allowance: Income, rent and household size determine the amount; verify the exact calculation.
• Observe deadlines: Submit applications on time and file appeals within deadlines.

If you are unsure which incomes are counted, ask the local authority or request a consultation at the housing office. An objection is possible if the authority rejects your application; structured documentation of all income and expenses helps in such cases.

FAQ

Who can get a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)?

Basically people with low incomes; for students there are special income limits that vary by federal state. Ask your city or district administration.

Do I have to apply for housing allowance if I receive BAföG?

BAföG can affect the counted income; in many cases a housing allowance entitlement is still possible if the total burden is low enough.

Which authority decides on WBS and housing allowance?

The local housing or social authority decides on WBS and housing allowance; in case of dispute the Amtsgericht (local court) is competent for tenancy disputes.

How-To

1. Collect documents: Prepare current bank statements, enrollment certificate, income proofs and rental contract.
2. Fill out the application: Complete and sign the WBS form or housing allowance application of the responsible authority.
3. Monitor deadlines: Keep the receipt of submission and file an objection within the set deadline if necessary.
4. Ask questions: Contact the housing authority if unclear and submit missing documents.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) — gesetze-im-internet.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) — gesetze-im-internet.de