Prove WBS Extension: Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you often need a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) to obtain or keep a social apartment. If your WBS expires, you must apply for an extension in time and in a provable way so that your entitlements are preserved. This guide clearly explains which documents landlords and housing authorities expect, how to submit the extension application, which deadlines apply and how to archive proof correctly. I provide practical wording examples, name the relevant laws and authorities and describe how to avoid objections or lawsuits. The aim is that you as a tenant in Germany can safely and accessibly prove the WBS extension. At the end you will find a short guide for submitting documents and a FAQ with official sources.

What you need

Before applying, collect all relevant proofs. The most important documents are:

• Extension application form (Antrag / application) — form of the local housing office or city administration.
• Current rental contract (rent) — proof of your apartment and rent amount.
• ID documents and registration certificate (document) — identity card or passport and current registration certificate.
• Income proofs (payment) — payslips, notices or proof of social benefits.
• Social benefit notices or disability certificate (application) — if you have special entitlement reasons.

How to provide proof correctly

Submit the documents to the responsible housing office of your city or municipality. Request a confirmation of receipt or send by registered mail with return receipt so that you have written proof. Mark copies with the date of receipt.

If you submit the form in person, ask for written confirmation of receipt or a stamped confirmation.

Which deadlines apply

Deadlines often vary locally; ask the housing office for a recommended submission deadline. As a rule: submit the extension application several weeks before the WBS expires to allow for processing time.

What to do in case of rejection or missing proofs

If the authority rejects the application, check the reason for rejection and, if necessary, file an objection within the deadline. In tenancy disputes, the Amtsgericht (local court) is responsible; further remedies go via the Landgericht to the Federal Court of Justice.^[1][2]

FAQ

How do I apply for a WBS extension?

Submit the application to the responsible housing office of your city or municipality, attach the documents listed above and request a confirmation of receipt. The exact form is usually available online or at the office counter.^[2]

What deadlines should I observe?

Submit the application several weeks before expiry if possible; local processing times vary. Ask the housing office for a recommended deadline.

What happens if I do not provide proof?

If proof is missing, you may lose entitlement to subsidies and may have to continue paying for the apartment without social allocation or face termination. Check options for objection or supplying missing documents.

How-To

1. Obtain form: Download the extension form of your city or collect it in person at the housing office.
2. Collect documents: Attach copies of ID, rental contract and income proofs.
3. Submit: Submit the application in person with confirmation of receipt or send by registered mail.
4. Observe deadlines: Submit at least several weeks before expiry to account for processing times.
5. Answer queries: Respond promptly to authority requests.
6. In case of dispute: Learn about objection deadlines and possible court steps at the local court.

Help and Support

• BGB §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Amtsgericht (Mietrecht) — justiz.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Amtsgericht (Mietrecht) — justiz.de