Wohngeld 2025 for Tenants in Germany – Digital

Many tenants in Germany have only heard of Wohngeld, although a digital application in 2025 can significantly simplify the process. In this guide I explain in plain language who is eligible for Wohngeld or a rent subsidy, which documents are required and how to complete the online application step by step. You will receive practical advice on deadlines, how need rates are calculated and the certificate of eligibility for housing (WBS). I also describe which official forms to use and how to check decisions and, if necessary, file an objection. The aim is that you as a tenant can quickly and confidently check whether Wohngeld is an option for you and how to receive support digitally.

Who is eligible for Wohngeld?

Tenants with low incomes, students in certain cases and pensioners may be eligible for Wohngeld or a rent subsidy under certain conditions. Eligibility depends on income, household size and rent; the legal basis for this can be found in the Housing Promotion Act.^[2]

Apply for Wohngeld online

The digital application saves trips and speeds up processing. Prepare the following information and documents before you start:

• Check your income, your rent and household size (rent).
• Gather required proofs: pay slips, rental contract and bank statements (form).
• Create copies or scans of all documents as PDF or photo (document).
• Check with your local housing office whether a certificate of eligibility (WBS) is required (contact).

Many municipalities now offer an online form or an upload portal for documents; register with your digital access data and fill out the form carefully.

Important deadlines and documents

Note that approval periods and deadlines for submitting additional documents vary. Submit proofs promptly and pay attention to deadlines stated in the decision.

• Check deadlines: submit proofs within the required period (deadline).
• Forms: use the official "Wohngeld application form" of your municipality (form).
• Keep receipts: keep copies of all submitted documents (document).

Rights with incorrect decisions and objections

Check decisions carefully. Legal bases for tenancy and procedural law can be found in the BGB and civil procedure law; typically the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible for tenancy disputes.^[1][3]

FAQ

Who can apply for Wohngeld?

Generally people with low incomes who are tenants or bear housing costs; exact requirements depend on income, household size and rent.

Which documents do I need for the digital application?

Pay slips, rental contract, bank statements, ID and possibly certificates of BAföG or pension; exact details are in your municipality's application form.

What do I do if the application is rejected?

Check the rejection decision, file an objection within the deadline and submit missing proofs. If necessary, seek legal advice or contact the local court for disputes.

How-To

1. Step 1: Check eligibility and collect required documents (form).
2. Step 2: Create and verify scans or photos of documents (document).
3. Step 3: Open your municipality's online application and complete the form (application).
4. Step 4: Upload documents or submit by email and secure a confirmation of receipt (contact).
5. Step 5: Await the decision and observe deadlines for additional submissions (deadline).
6. Step 6: Check payout upon approval; if rejected, file an objection within the deadline (approved).

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
• [3] Information on courts and jurisdiction (Justiz)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Information on courts and jurisdiction (Justiz)