Apply for WBS Correctly: Tenants in Germany
What is a WBS?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a certificate that allows eligible households access to subsidised housing. It is based on the Housing Promotion Act and regulates which households, due to income and household size, are entitled to social housing.[2] The WBS itself is not a rental contract but the prerequisite for landlords or housing companies to select tenants for certain subsidised apartments.
Eligibility and required evidence
Families should check before applying whether income, household size and other conditions are met. Typical proofs include income statements, birth certificates of children and the rental contract or registration certificate.
- (application) Submit the WBS application with the completed form to the responsible city or municipal administration.
- (evidence) Present current pay slips, proof of social benefits or notices to calculate assessable income.
- (approved) Provide proof of household size: birth certificates, identity cards or registration certificate.
How families submit correct evidence
Prepare copies of all documents and, if necessary, obtain certified copies. Note the date and contact person when submitting, and request a receipt confirmation if the administration does not automatically issue one.
- (form) Download the municipality's form or pick it up in person at the housing office.
- (evidence) Attach all required proofs in a sensible order (income, children, housing situation).
- (calendar) Observe deadlines and, if necessary, submit missing documents within the specified period.
What to do in case of rejection or queries
If the application is rejected, check the reasoning carefully. You can often file an objection within the stated deadline or bring an action before the competent local court; for tenancy and administrative matters the Amtsgericht is usually the first instance.[3]
FAQ
- Who needs a WBS?
- Households that want to be admitted to subsidised housing need a WBS; these are often families with low incomes or recipients of certain social benefits.
- How long is a WBS valid?
- Validity varies by federal state; commonly the term is one to two years.
- Where do I apply for the WBS?
- You apply for the WBS at the local housing or social authority of your city or municipality.
How-To
- (form) Obtain the form: download your municipality's WBS application form or pick it up at the housing office.
- (evidence) Gather documents: payslips, proofs for children, registration certificate and, if applicable, proof of social benefits.
- (calendar) Submit the application: by post, in person or electronically if your municipality offers an online service; request confirmation of receipt.
- (clock) Wait for the decision: processing time varies; allow several weeks.
- (court) If rejected: file an objection or consider legal action; consult advice centres or the local court if necessary.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
- Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
- Information on local courts and competence
