WBS Extension Checklist for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany must renew their Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) in time to retain eligibility for social housing. This guide explains which deadlines to observe, which documents the authority requires, and how to correctly complete and submit a sample letter. You receive a clear checklist with concrete action steps, tips on common mistakes and templates for communicating with the authority. I also explain the legal basis and where to find official forms so you can apply for the renewal on time and without unnecessary effort. I show examples for deadlines (when to renew, how long before) and a sample letter you can adapt to your housing office. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide and official application links.

What does a "timely" renewal mean?

Timely means submitting the application so that your current WBS does not expire and you can continuously prove eligibility. Fundamental tenant duties and protections are in the German Civil Code (BGB) (e.g. §§ 535–580a)^[1]. Rules for the Wohnberechtigungsschein are part of housing promotion and regulated in the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)^[2].

Checklist: WBS renewal (step by step)

• Check the deadline: note the expiration date of your current WBS and set a reminder.
• Gather documents: valid ID, current WBS, proof of income, and rental contract.
• Forms: download the renewal or reissue application or request it from the housing office.
• Sample letter: fill out the sample letter, date and sign it.
• Submit: file the application and attachments on time by post or online.
• Proof of receipt: request a confirmation of receipt and keep copies.
• Contact: contact the responsible housing office early if you have questions.

The exact forms needed depend on the federal state and municipality. Many cities offer an online form or a PDF application; an example municipal application page is the Berlin service portal with WBS application information^[3].

What applies legally and organizationally?

For tenants it is important: guidance on deadlines and obligations can be found in the BGB and special administrative regulations. The competent authority for WBS applications is the local housing office or municipality; administrative deadlines may vary. If in doubt, ask the office specifically which proofs are accepted and whether an extension of deadlines is possible.

FAQ

When do I need to renew the WBS?

Check the expiration date of your current WBS and submit the renewal application early enough to avoid any gap; many offices recommend at least 6–8 weeks in advance.

Which documents are required?

Typical documents: valid ID or passport, proof of income, rental contract and the existing WBS. Check with the responsible housing office for exact requirements.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

If you lack a valid WBS, you may temporarily lose entitlement to social housing; contact the housing office immediately and provide documentation to seek retroactive recognition.

How-To

1. Check the expiry date of your WBS and set a reminder.
2. Gather all required documents and make copies.
3. Use the sample letter, complete the application and sign it.
4. Submit the application and attachments on time to the housing office (online or by post).
5. Request a confirmation of receipt and keep all records.

Help and Support

• BGB: German Civil Code (Tenancy Law)
• WoFG: Housing Promotion Act
• Service Berlin: Apply for WBS (example city)

---

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Service Berlin: Application for Wohnberechtigungsschein — service.berlin.de