Apply for WBS: Guide for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants who rely on social housing face the first step: applying for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This guide explains clearly who is eligible, which proofs are required and how you can speed up the process in Germany. It outlines deadlines, common mistakes when filling out the forms and practical tips for documenting your income and household situation. It also explains which authorities are responsible, where to find official application forms and how to get support if problems arise. The goal is that after reading you know how to assemble your WBS application correctly and avoid unnecessary delays.

What is the WBS?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is an official document that confirms eligibility for subsidised social housing. The legal basis is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[1], which sets framework conditions and income limits. Without a WBS you may not be considered for many subsidised housing offers.

Who is eligible?

• Low-income households (income)
• Recipients of social benefits or housing allowance (payment)
• Families with children and single parents on low incomes (rent)
• Special cases such as disability or special housing needs (document)

Which documents do you need?

• Identity card or passport (document)
• Proofs of income for recent months (income)
• Benefit notices (e.g. ALG II, housing allowance) (payment)
• Rental contract or proof of living situation (rent)
• Birth certificates or proofs of household members (record)

How to speed up the application

• Assemble complete documents and submit them in an orderly way (submit)
• Keep deadlines and processing times in mind (deadline)
• Keep receipts and proofs chronologically organised (document)
• Ask the authority for the preferred submission method (in person, by post, digital) (submit)

Authorities and Courts

The WBS is usually handled by the local housing office or municipal authority. In disputes over tenancy law, the Amtsgerichte (local courts) are the first instance; further rules on tenancy are set out in the BGB in §§ 535–580a^[2] and actions in the Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO). Find out early about responsibilities and formal requirements.

FAQ

Who needs a WBS?

Households with low income, recipients of certain social benefits and other eligible groups generally need a WBS to rent subsidised housing.

How long does processing take?

Processing time varies by municipality; usually expect a few weeks, in some cases longer.

Can I apply for the WBS online?

Many cities now offer online applications; check your housing office's website for the exact procedure.

What if my application is rejected?

You will receive a written decision with reasons and can file an objection within the stated deadline or consider legal steps.

How-To

1. Collect documents: identity, income proofs and rental contract.
2. Fill in the application form: complete and legible, then sign (submit).
3. Send to or hand in to the responsible housing office according to their process.
4. Respond to any follow-up questions and monitor processing time.
5. Check the WBS when received and store it safely as PDF/original.

Help and Support / Resources

• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - official law text
• German Civil Code (BGB) - tenancy §§ 535–580a
• Apply for WBS - service.berlin.de (example)

1. [1] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - §§ 535–580a - gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Wohnberechtigungsschein beantragen - service.berlin.de