Income Limits for Tenants in Germany — Checklist
Many tenants in Germany face questions about income limits and the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This article explains in plain terms who may be eligible, which income proofs are required and how you can improve your chances with a practical checklist. I describe step by step the application steps, the most important legal bases and everyday examples so that you know which deadlines to observe and which documents the municipal office typically requires. You will also find notes on deadlines, possible objections and how to react in case of rejection. At the end there are practical templates and links to the relevant laws and authorities.
What are income limits and the WBS?
Income limits determine which households are entitled to subsidised housing or a Wohnberechtigungsschein. The WBS is a municipal certification that confirms your household meets the requirements. The rules arise from the Housing Promotion Act and the relevant provisions of tenancy law.[2][1]
Who is eligible?
Eligible are households whose regular income falls within the set limits for their region and household size. The limit depends on the federal state, the promotion program and the number of household members. Further criteria can include assets, special needs or previous housing situation.
Which documents do you need?
- Income statements for the last 12 months (pay slips, pension notices, maintenance payments).
- Copy of a valid identity card or passport.
- Current tenancy agreement or proof of previous accommodation.
- Fully completed application form of the responsible city/district administration.
- Contact details of all household members and, if applicable, proof of special needs.
Practical tips for applying
Collect all originals and copies several weeks before applying. Make sure pay slips are complete and dated. Many municipalities require signed and fully completed forms; incomplete applications delay decisions.
Checklist: How to improve your chances
- Gather all income and wage statements for the last 12 months.
- Make copies of IDs and the tenancy agreement.
- Complete and sign the application form.
- Submit the application on time and note the date of submission.
- Document contacts (date, contact person) at the municipal office.
Further legal bases
Germany's tenancy law regulates duties and rights of tenants and landlords in the BGB; many questions about termination, rent reduction and obligations arise from it.[1] For the allocation of housing benefits and certificates, the Housing Promotion Act is decisive.[2] Rules for court procedures, for example in eviction cases, are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure.[3]
Frequently Asked Questions
- How does the WBS differ from social housing?
- The WBS is evidence that you are eligible to receive subsidised housing; social housing is the actual apartment offered based on that evidence.
- Which incomes are counted?
- All regular incomes such as wages, pensions, maintenance and certain social benefits are usually counted; exact rules depend on the subsidy programme.
- What can I do if my application is rejected?
- You can file an objection within the municipal deadline and submit missing documents; for legal disputes the local court may be competent.[4]
How-To
- Obtain the application form from your city/district administration online or in person.
- Collect complete income proofs and copies of required documents.
- Submit the application on time and note the contact person and date.
- Provide additional documents on request and keep copies of everything submitted.
- If rejected, check the written reasoning and consider objection or legal advice.
Key Takeaways
- Income limits vary by region; always check local regulations.
- Submit complete applications on time to avoid delays.
- Good documentation significantly increases approval chances.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
- Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
- Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
