WBS 2025: Documents & Deadlines for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is often the key to subsidized housing. This guide explains clearly and practically which documents you should prepare in 2025, which deadlines to observe and how to submit forms correctly. I describe typical notices, proofs of income and household size, and which authority is responsible. You will receive concrete action steps for application, renewal and subsequent submissions, including how to respond to queries or errors. The goal is to speed up the WBS process and avoid mistakes so that you receive quicker decisions and potential housing benefits.

Which documents do tenants need?

The standard proofs for a WBS usually are:

• ID card or passport (identity and nationality)
• Proofs of income (pay slips, pension notices, benefit notices)
• Lease agreement or proof of residence
• Proof of household size (birth certificates, registration certificates)
• Benefit notices (if relevant)

Deadlines and processing times

Deadlines vary by municipality. Submit the application ideally well before the desired move-in date, because requests for additional documents lengthen processing time. Some cities state processing times of several weeks up to three months; plan a buffer.

Forms: what to check and how to submit?

Forms are usually provided by the responsible housing promotion office or the social welfare office. Fill in all fields completely and sign where required. For electronic submission, observe the file formats and maximum file sizes.

• WBS application form (municipal form)
• Consent for data verification (if required)
• Pay slips for the last three months

Who is responsible? Court notes and laws

The legal basis for subsidized housing is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).^[1] General tenancy law rules are found in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), especially regarding landlord and tenant obligations (§§ 535–580a BGB).^[2] In disputes about rental contracts, the local court (Amtsgericht) is often the first instance.

Practical example: submitting the WBS

Example: Ms. K collects her ID, three pay slips, lease and registration certificate. She completes the municipal application, signs it and uploads all files as PDFs or delivers copies in person. The authority requests missing documents within two weeks; Ms. K provides them in time.

What to do in case of queries or rejection?

Respond promptly to requests for additional documents. If an application is rejected, review the decision carefully: the reasons must be stated. An objection or lawsuit is possible; for procedural questions the Amtsgericht is competent, with appeals to the Landgericht or the Federal Court of Justice for fundamental legal issues.

FAQ

Who is entitled to a WBS?

Households whose incomes meet the limits for the respective support level and who meet other municipal requirements are eligible.

How long does processing of a WBS application take?

Processing time varies widely by municipality; expect several weeks up to three months depending on the completeness of documents.

How-To

1. Collect all required documents (ID, proof of income, lease).
2. Complete the municipal application form fully and sign it.
3. Submit the application electronically or in person and observe deadlines for supplementary documents.
4. If asked, contact the responsible office immediately and keep all receipts.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [3] WBS application — Service Berlin (example municipal service)

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1. [1] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] WBS beantragen — Service Berlin