WBS Extension: Deadlines & Documents for Tenants Germany

As a tenant entitled to a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) in Germany, extending the WBS can determine important future issues such as housing entitlement and social rent conditions. This guide explains in plain language which documents are typically required, which deadlines must be observed, and which official forms you must submit to your municipality. I describe practical steps, give examples for applying, and show how to secure deadlines and schedule meetings with the authority. I also name the competent courts and the relevant legal bases so you know where to turn if problems arise. The goal is to give you, as a tenant in Germany, confidence and actionable steps for a smooth WBS extension.

Which documents do you need for the WBS extension?

Municipalities require similar documents; check your city administration's list in advance. Common documents are:

• Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS), fully completed and signed.
• Income proofs for all household members (pay slips, notices, proofs of social benefits).
• Lease agreement or landlord confirmation as proof of housing situation.
• Copies of IDs (identity card/passport) and registration certificate.

Deadlines and appointments

Plan the extension in good time: Many authorities recommend submitting the renewal application several weeks before the existing WBS expires. Specific deadlines vary by municipality.

• Submit the application at least 6–8 weeks before the current WBS expires to allow for processing time.
• If documents are missing, authorities often set a deadline for supplementary submissions; respond within the stated period.
• In urgent cases (e.g., imminent loss of housing), contact the authority immediately and request expedited processing.

Forms, authorities and practical examples

The actual application forms are usually called "Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)". Example: The City of Berlin provides information and forms for applying for a WBS; use your own municipality's website for the correct form.

• Form: Application for issuance of a WBS – use your municipality's form and fill it out completely.
• Additional forms: Some municipalities require separate annexes for income or household composition.

Practical example: The Müller family submits the completed WBS application with copies of all pay slips and the lease agreement eight weeks before the WBS expires. The authority confirms receipt by email and requests two weeks later additional evidence; the Müllers submit this within one week and receive the extension.

Legal basis and competent courts

Key legal bases in tenancy and procedural law are contained in the German Civil Code (BGB), particularly provisions on tenancy and party obligations^[1]. Provisions on housing promotion (e.g., WBS law) are found in the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)^[2]. If court proceedings occur (for example eviction proceedings), the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies^[3].

For disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; higher instances may be guided by precedent from the Federal Court of Justice (BGH)^[4].

FAQ

How early should I submit the WBS renewal application?

Submit the application ideally 6–8 weeks before the current WBS expires to allow for processing and queries.

Which proofs are most important?

Primarily: completed application, income proofs for all household members, lease agreement and ID copies.

What happens if I miss a deadline?

If deadlines are missed, you may lose WBS entitlement or face delayed benefit payments; contact the responsible authority immediately.

How-To

1. Check your current WBS expiry date and mark it in your calendar.
2. Download the official application form from your municipality or collect it in person at the authority.
3. Gather all proofs (income, lease, IDs) and make copies.
4. Submit the application on time and note the receipt or sending time.
5. Respond promptly to authority requests for additional documents within the given period.
6. Keep confirmations and the renewed WBS copy safe for later verification.

Help and Support / Resources

• WBS information and application pages of your city or district administration (example: Berlin).
• Legal texts online: BGB and ZPO at gesetze-im-internet.de.
• Court information and case law (e.g., Federal Court of Justice).

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – case law