WBS Renewal on Time for Tenants in Germany

Many students and tenants face the question of how to renew a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) on time. In Germany, meeting deadlines, properly completing official forms and timely submitting proofs often determine the success of the application. This guide explains step by step which documents the authority needs, how to keep track of deadlines, which forms are relevant and which courts may have jurisdiction if disputes arise. The goal is for students and other tenants to know their rights and achieve a timely renewal without unnecessary stress or financial disadvantages. Practical form tips and references to official authorities help with the practical process.

What this is about

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) regulates access to subsidized housing under the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG). For a renewal, the responsible authority checks income statements, study or employment status and changes in your personal circumstances. Legal bases for tenancy law are found in the Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding the duties and rights of the parties.^[1] Procedural questions for possible court actions are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).^[2]

Deadlines, proofs and forms

To renew a WBS on time, you should check the following points early:

• Observe deadlines: apply for the renewal at least 6–8 weeks before the expiry of the certificate.
• Forms: Use the official application from the municipality or city and fill in all fields completely.
• Proofs: Prepare up-to-date income statements, enrollment certificates and registration confirmations.
• Contact: Clarify open questions early with the responsible authority by phone or email to avoid delays.

If the authority rejects or does not respond

If your application is rejected or the authority remains inactive, you can consider an objection or an action for failure to act. Courts responsible for tenancy and administrative disputes are often the local courts, while higher instances may involve regional courts or the Federal Court of Justice.^[4] Procedural rules for filing a lawsuit are found in the ZPO.^[2]

• Check objection options and deadlines before considering legal action.
• Documentation: Collect correspondence, confirmations of receipt and evidence of submitted documents.
• Legal advice: In complex cases, a free initial consultation or legal aid can help.
• Completion: Document every deadline and every response from the authority as evidence.

Practical examples and form tips

Typical wording in a renewal application: "I hereby apply for the renewal of my Wohnberechtigungsschein, issued on [date], due to continued studies/low income. Attached documents: enrollment certificate, income statements, registration confirmation." Pay attention to dates, signature and a complete list of attachments. Legal bases for WBS allocation can be found in the WoFG.^[3]

FAQ

Who issues the WBS and who is responsible?

The issuance is carried out municipally by city or municipal administrations; the requirements are regulated by the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).^[3]

How long before expiry should I file the renewal application?

Practically, you should submit the application 6–8 weeks before the expiry of the existing WBS to allow for processing times and requests for additional documents.

What can I do if the authority does not respond?

You can first follow up in writing; if the authority remains inactive, consider objection or an action for failure to act under the rules of the ZPO and contact the local court.^[2]

How-To

1. Check deadlines: Note the expiry date of your WBS and plan the application 6–8 weeks in advance.
2. Obtain the form: Download the official application form from your municipality or get it at the citizen office.
3. Gather documents: Attach income statements, enrollment certificate and registration confirmation.
4. Submit & track: Send the application in time and document the dispatch or hand-in; respond immediately to inquiries.

Key takeaways

• Act early to improve the chance of a timely renewal.
• Complete forms and attachments reduce follow-up requests.
• Document every step to strengthen your position in disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) – Mietrecht §§535–580a
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – WBS rules
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – procedural rules
• Judicial information portal – courts in Germany

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Justice portal – information on courts in Germany