Tenants in Germany: Student Income Limits
Many tenants in Germany wonder whether students with limited income are eligible for social housing and a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This article clearly explains which income limits apply to students, how the calculation works and which official forms are required. We show practical steps for the application, deadlines and typical proofs, name the competent authorities and courts for disputes and give tips on how you as a tenant can protect your rights. The guidance is suitable for students, shared-flat residents and parents seeking support, and links only to official German authorities and sample forms. Concrete examples show typical income limits in different federal states, exceptions for BAföG or working students and how household costs are considered. At the end you will find references to relevant laws such as the BGB[1] and notes on the ZPO and court jurisdiction[4].
Income limits and WBS in Germany
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is tied to regional income limits set by the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) and state regulations. Eligibility is often determined by the household income to be considered, household size and regional specifics. Tenant duties and rights are based on the BGB, especially the tenancy law sections (§§ 535–580a).[1]
As a student you may fall under the income limits depending on the federal state and funding program; there are special rules on how student jobs, BAföG or scholarships are counted. Applications under the WoFG are processed by local housing offices or specialist departments.[2]
Who is eligible?
- Students with a permanently low regular income that falls below the regional limits.
- Households where side earnings, scholarships or BAföG are correctly credited according to rules.
- People with special social needs when exemption rules apply.
Exact threshold values vary: some states use fixed gross amounts, others allow deductions for students. Ask your local housing office which documents are required.[3]
Forms and practical examples
Important forms and examples tenants and students need:
- WBS application (example: City of Berlin form) — use the form to check your eligibility and submit required proofs like income statements and tenancy agreement.[3]
- Termination letter template (example from the Federal Ministry of Justice) — this template helps understand formal requirements for notices; tenants use it when ending a tenancy or documenting objection deadlines.
- Income proofs — payslips, BAföG notices or scholarship confirmations should be collected and dated to allow the office to calculate your actual household net income.
Application steps: What tenants should do
Step-by-step guidance reduces errors and speeds up processing:
- Inform: Check with the local housing office about regional income limits and required documents.
- Collect: Prepare income proofs, tenancy agreement, registration certificate and student enrollment confirmation.
- Complete: Fill out the WBS application fully and attach copies of proofs; use official municipal forms.[3]
- Submit: File the application in person, by post or digitally and record the submission date and contact person.
- Appeal & court: If rejected, check deadlines and options under the ZPO; court proceedings usually start at the local court.
FAQ
- Who counts as household for income calculation?
- The household usually includes all people who live permanently in the flat and are economically connected; exact rules differ regionally, ask your housing office.[2]
- Is BAföG counted as income for the WBS?
- BAföG is not always fully counted as income; parts can be exempt. Check local practice with the housing office or state guidelines.
- What can I do if the WBS application is rejected?
- You can file an objection, observe deadlines and consider court action at the local court; keep all documents and dates well documented.
How-To
- Collect all required proofs: income documents, tenancy agreement and enrollment certificate.
- Calculate your household net income according to your housing office rules or get advice.
- Fill out the WBS form completely and attach copies of proofs.[3]
- Submit the application and note the date and contact details.
- If rejected: file an objection and watch deadlines; consider local court action if needed.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- [3] WBS and application (City of Berlin example) - berlin.de
- [4] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
