Tenants: WBS & Income Limits in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, entitlement to social housing and the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) can help you find affordable housing. This guide explains clearly how income limits are checked, which forms and documents are required, and which deadlines tenants, students and shared flats (WGs) should observe. I describe concrete steps for the application, practical examples for student housing and common mistakes that delay applications. You will also learn which authorities are responsible and how to prepare for a decision. The goal is that as a tenant you can realistically assess your chances and submit the right documents completely. I also name official forms, explain deadlines and show where to find government guidance and templates.
What is a WBS?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is proof that you meet the requirements for a subsidised social flat; the provisions of the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) are decisive.[1] For tenants this means: if your income is below the regional income limits, you may be able to rent a subsidised flat under certain conditions.
Which documents do you need?
- Current proof of income (pay slips, BAföG notice or scholarship)
- Identity card or residence permit
- Tenancy agreement or registration certificate
- Enrolment certificate for students or proof of the shared flat composition
Application deadlines and procedure
Allocation rules and deadlines vary by federal state and municipality. In many cities you can submit the application online or in person at the housing authority; for example, Berlin provides information pages and administration forms.[3] Submit complete evidence to avoid delays.
- Check regional deadlines and processing times
- Submit the application in writing or online with all forms
- Submit missing evidence within the required deadline
What to do in case of rejection?
If the application is rejected, check the reasons for rejection in the decision. In case of uncertainty, tenants can file an objection or consider legal action; tenancy law basics can be found in the BGB §§ 535–580a and in civil procedural rules of the ZPO.[2]
- File an objection or request a review with the competent authority
- Seek advice if necessary and observe deadlines for lawsuits at the local court
- Complete documents and collect evidence systematically
FAQ
- Who can apply for a WBS?
- Generally, tenants with income below the regional limit can apply for a WBS; special rules apply to students and shared flats.
- Which deadlines are important?
- Pay attention to the deadlines in the decision and the processing times of your municipality; incomplete applications delay the decision.
- Is there a uniform form?
- Forms are often regulated locally; example pages and guidance for applying can be found on your city administration pages.[3]
How-To
- Gather all required evidence (income, ID, tenancy agreement).
- Complete the application form of the competent municipality in full.
- Submit the application and observe deadlines for supplementary documents.
- File an objection for formal errors in the decision or prepare a lawsuit if necessary.
Help and Support / Resources
- Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
- WBS information and forms – Berlin.de
