Income Limits: Tenants Prove Eligibility in Germany

Many tenants in Germany underestimate formal requirements for income proofs when applying for social housing or benefits. This article explains in plain language which documents landlords or authorities typically require, how to anonymize and organize payslips, bank statements and notices properly, and which deadlines matter. I also show common mistakes—like wrong date ranges or unsuitable self-declarations—and give practical steps for submitting missing proof. The aim is to prevent avoidable formal errors from jeopardizing your chances for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) or subsidized housing. The guide is aimed at tenants without legal background and stays practical.

Which documents count?

Authorities and landlords usually require several documents so income can be checked correctly. Collect originals and prepare organized copies for submission.

• Payslips for the last three months (for employees).
• Bank statements showing incoming payments and recurring income.
• Tax assessment or income tax return as proof of longer-term income.
• For self-employed: profit and loss statement, BWA or commercial register extract.
• Benefit notices (e.g. Jobcenter, parental allowance) as supplementary income components.

Common mistakes

Many rejections or follow-up requests can be avoided with simple care. Pay special attention to the following points:

• Wrong date range: Documents must cover the requested period, e.g. the last three months.
• Incomplete anonymization: Remove only inadmissible third-party data, but keep sender and amounts visible if required.
• Illegible copies: Scans or photos must be readable, otherwise documents will be requested again.
• Missing formal details: An informal letter without date or signature often does not count as proof.
• Submitting too late: Missing deadlines leads to rejection or loss of rights.

For legal foundations, see the relevant laws and guidance. Tenancy law in the BGB regulates duties and rights around housing, while housing promotion law (WoFG) covers rules for subsidized housing and the WBS.^[1][2]

Forms and deadlines

Important forms and examples tenants should know:

• Application for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS application): Filed at the municipality; check the required income year.
• Objection letter against decisions: If rejected, submit in writing within the stated deadline; include reasons and new evidence.
• Termination letter templates from the federal ministry: Relevant when tenancy issues must be asserted or ended.

Examples: Submit payslips within the deadline stated in the notice; an objection is usually due within one month.

FAQ

What counts as income for the WBS?

Regular income such as salary, pensions, parental allowance or Jobcenter benefits counts. One-off payments may be considered separately.

How long do I have to submit evidence?

The deadline is stated in the decision; typically a few weeks up to one month. Submit documents as early as possible and document the submission.

Where do I file an objection?

Address the objection to the authority that issued the decision. For court actions, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible.^[4]

How-To

1. Collect all relevant original documents and make clear copies.
2. Anonymize third-party data only where permitted and keep traceability for reviewers.
3. Create a cover sheet with a table of contents and short descriptions for each document.
4. Submit documents on time and note the date and submission method.
5. If rejected: file an objection and check the option to go to the local court within the one-month period.

Key Takeaways

• Order and completeness of proofs prevent many rejections.
• Observe deadlines: Do not miss submission or objection periods.
• Use official forms and templates provided by ministries.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Justice Portal Germany – information on courts

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – WoFG
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)
4. [4] Justice Portal Germany – Courts