Legal Aid for Tenants in Germany 2025
As a tenant in Germany you can apply for legal aid (provisionally "Prozesskostenhilfe") if you cannot afford a legal dispute with your landlord. This text clearly explains who is eligible, how the local court (Amtsgericht) reviews the application and which documents, income proofs and tenancy agreements you should prepare. I describe common cases such as rent increases, eviction lawsuits or defect claims, list relevant deadlines and show how to fill out forms correctly. Short practical examples help you avoid common mistakes. If necessary, you will also learn how local tenant associations and official advisory centers can support you and which courts are responsible. This helps you find a safer path to financial assistance in tenancy law.
What is legal aid?
Legal aid (Prozesskostenhilfe) is state support for people with low incomes so they can assert their rights in court. The rules on procedure and approval are laid down in the Code of Civil Procedure; the court examines neediness and the prospects of success of the case.[2]
Who is eligible?
- Low income (income): You must not have sufficient means.
- Asset assessment (form): The court checks whether assets can be used.
- No complete lack of prospects (eligible): Your claim must not be hopeless.
Which documents are required?
- Proofs of salary and income, bank statements and evidence of benefits (document).
- Tenancy agreement and correspondence with the landlord (form).
- Receipts for ongoing costs, additional charges and arrears (document).
Forms and practical examples
The typical name of the form is "Antrag auf Prozesskostenhilfe". To complete it, enter your personal details, income, expenses and the justification of the legal dispute. Example: For an eviction case, attach the complaint or proof of service.[4]
Deadlines and the local court
The competent local court (Amtsgericht) decides on the application; details of the procedure are set out in the Code of Civil Procedure.[2] In addition, provisions of the Civil Code (BGB) are relevant for tenancy claims.[1]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who repays legal aid?
- If you later have a high income or assets, the court may order repayment at a later time.
- Can I get a lawyer with legal aid?
- Yes, legal aid can cover lawyer costs if the application is approved.
- Does legal aid apply to rent increases?
- Yes, legal aid can be available for disputes over rent increases and operating costs.
Step-by-step: Submit the application
- Complete the form (form): Enter personal data, income and expenses.
- Attach documents (document): Include pay slips, the tenancy agreement and correspondence.
- Observe deadlines (deadline): Submit the application in time to the competent local court.
- Wait for the decision (court): The court examines the case and issues a ruling.
Help and Support
- Local court (court) - find competent courts
- Federal Ministry of Justice - information on legal aid
- Laws online - BGB and ZPO
