Appeal Wohngeld Rejection for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany it is important to know how to properly file an appeal (Widerspruch) against a Wohngeld rejection. This guide is specifically aimed at single parents and other households with limited resources; it explains step-by-step the relevant deadlines (deadline), which documents and official forms (form) are required, and how to structure your letter correctly. I describe local court and authority responsibilities, cite relevant sections of the BGB ^[1] and give practical tips for collecting photos and receipts. At the end you will find concrete action steps and links to official forms so you can act on time and with evidence. The language remains simple so you can take immediate action. Contact legal help if needed.

Which documents do I need?

Overview of the most important documents that support your appeal.

• Decision or rejection notice from the Wohngeld office (document)
• Proof of single parent status: birth certificates, custody documents or corresponding notices (proof)
• Tenancy agreement and rent payment proofs (bank statements, receipts) (rent)
• Income and benefit proofs (pay slips, child benefit notices) (payment)
• Photos or other evidence that document your housing situation and need (photo)
• Completed appeal forms or a simple written appeal (form)

Deadlines and competent authorities

Deadlines are crucial: act quickly and follow formal requirements, otherwise you may lose rights. Check statutory bases and the competence of authorities and Wohngeld law ^[2] and the relevant procedural rules ^[1].

• Typically file the appeal within one month after service of the decision (deadline)
• If you miss a deadline, contact the Wohngeld office immediately and document reasons (event)
• If necessary, judicial review takes place at the Amtsgericht; higher instances are the Landgericht or the BGH ^[3] (court)

How to draft the appeal

An appeal can be informal but should be well structured: name, address, decision number, date of decision, clear reasoning and signature. Attach evidence and an index of attachments.

• State the decision number and date exactly (form)
• Explain factually which points you consider incorrect and refer to evidence (evidence)
• Send the appeal by registered mail or obtain an acknowledgement of receipt (contact)

What happens after the appeal?

The Wohngeld office will re-examine your appeal; there may be follow-up questions. If the decision remains negative, you will receive an administrative act with information on further legal remedies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file the appeal?

Usually one month after service of the decision; check the exact note on the rejection notice and act promptly (deadline).

Which forms do I need?

Many municipalities offer an appeal form; otherwise a simple written appeal with evidence and signature suffices (form).

Who do I contact if the appeal is rejected?

If the appeal fails, court action before the local court (Amtsgericht) is often possible; have deadlines and potential costs reviewed (court).

Instructions

1. Collect all relevant documents: decision, tenancy agreement, income proofs, photos (form)
2. Draft a clear appeal with reasons and list of attachments (evidence)
3. Submit the appeal on time by registered mail or in person and get confirmation of receipt (contact)
4. Respond promptly to any questions from the Wohngeld office and provide missing documents (safety)
5. If the appeal is rejected, consult legal advice to consider court action at the local court (court)

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
• Wohngeld Act (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Official website

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Wohngeldgesetz (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice – Official website