WBS: Income Limits for Tenants in Germany
Many tenants in Germany wonder whether they qualify for social housing with a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This guide explains step by step how to check your income limit, which documents municipalities typically require, and how to submit an application. We outline practical examples, name relevant legal bases such as the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz, and show how to organize proofs, meet deadlines, and find contacts at the responsible authority. The aim is that you as a tenant clearly understand which income parts are counted, which forms are needed, and how a well-documented application increases your chances of success.
What is the WBS?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is in many federal states the access condition for subsidized apartments. It certifies that your household does not exceed the legally set income limit. Municipalities are responsible; the regulations are derived from the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).[1]
Who is typically eligible?
- Household income must fall below the local income limit, which varies by region.
- Household size: more people usually increase the permissible amount.
- Special cases like severe disability or single parents can affect eligibility.
Practically, first check your city or district rules and compare your adjusted household income with the locally valid limit.
Which proofs do you need?
Authorities typically request the following documents; exact requirements are available from the responsible office or municipal service pages.
- Pay slips for recent months or an employer certificate.
- Proofs of social benefits, pension notices or maintenance payments.
- ID card or registration certificate to prove household membership.
Example: A household with two earners provides the last three pay slips of both persons and the rental contract as proof. For details on application many municipalities provide their own forms; an example application is available from the City of Berlin service portal.[2]
Submitting the application: practical steps
Preparation
- Collect all household income proofs for the relevant calendar year.
- Create a simple overview showing which incomes are countable and which are not.
Submission
- Submit the application in person, by post or electronically to the responsible authority.
- Observe deadlines and copying requirements; certified copies are often not required.
What to do if rejected?
If you receive a rejection, review the reasoning carefully. Legal bases for tenancy and social housing law are found in the Civil Code (BGB) and the WoFG.[3] Often a clarifying conversation with the caseworker helps; for formal errors, you can file an objection or submit missing documents.
FAQ
- How do I calculate countable income?
- Countable income includes regular receipts minus certain allowances; exact calculation follows local rules.
- Can I apply for the WBS online?
- Many municipalities now offer online applications; check your city administration website or contact the responsible office by phone.
- How long is a WBS valid?
- Validity usually ranges from one to three years, depending on the issuing authority's rules.
How-To
- Check your municipality's website for current income limits and required documents.
- Gather pay slips, benefit notices and registration proof and prepare an overview of your household net income.
- Complete the application fully, sign it and submit it along with copies of proofs.
- Keep receipts and submission confirmations and follow up if processing takes longer than expected.
Key Takeaways
- The WBS verifies whether your household income falls below the local threshold.
- Well-organized documents and a clear overview speed up the decision.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact your municipal housing office or hotline for WBS inquiries.
- Legal texts on Wohnraumförderungsgesetz are available on Gesetze im Internet.
- Case law relevant to tenancy issues can be found on the Federal Court of Justice website.
