Tenants: Income Limits for Students in Germany

Many tenants, especially students, wonder in Germany when they qualify for social housing or a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This article explains in plain language which income limits apply, which proofs authorities require and how students can practically check their rights under tenancy law. You will receive concrete steps for application, tips on deadlines and the most important forms plus examples from students' everyday situations. The goal is that, as a tenant, you can confidently assess whether a WBS is possible, which documents you need to collect and which authorities to contact.

What is the WBS and why does income matter?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a certificate allowing access to subsidized housing. The legal basis is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[1]. For students, the decisive criterion is the household net income; other household members may also be counted. Authorities check income, BAföG, scholarships and side jobs.

Main income rules and proofs

• Considered income: regular net income from jobs, scholarships or maintenance payments.
• Proofs: pay slips, scholarship confirmations, BAföG decisions and bank statements are often required.
• Forms: the WBS application and possibly a sworn declaration of income are requested by the city authority.
• Deadlines: submit documents completely; processing times vary between municipalities.

Forms, authority contact and practical examples

The actual application is handled by the city or district administration. Common documents are the "Application for Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)" and current income proofs. Practical example: A student with a part-time job submits the last three pay slips, the BAföG decision and an enrolment certificate; the authority checks household income and issues the WBS if applicable.

How tenants can check their income limits

Check systematically: calculate your monthly net income, add regular income of other household members and compare the total with municipal WBS limits. Note that some municipalities grant allowances for students or single-person households. If the authority rejects, request a written explanation and check whether objection or legal action is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a student with a side job get a WBS?

Yes, as long as household net income does not exceed the municipal income limit; all regular incomes are taken into account.

Which authority decides on the WBS?

The decision is made by the local housing authority or the city/district office responsible for housing.

What to do if the WBS is rejected?

Request the written rejection, review the justification and file an objection if necessary or seek legal advice; court proceedings usually take place at the local court (Amtsgericht).

How-To

1. Collect all income proofs for the last three months, BAföG or scholarship decisions and the enrolment certificate.
2. Complete the application for Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) of the responsible city and attach the proofs.
3. Contact the housing authority for questions and arrange an appointment if needed.
4. Observe deadlines for objections and document submission to avoid disadvantages.

Key Takeaways

• The WBS depends on municipal income limits and the household net income.
• Gather complete proofs before submitting the application.
• Submit documents on time and respond promptly to authority requests.

Help & Support / Resources

• Federal Ministry of Justice - Contact and information
• Gesetze im Internet - BGB, WoFG, ZPO
• Federal Court of Justice - Case law on tenancy law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Statutory text
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - Statutory text
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - Statutory text
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice - Information on courts and procedures