Wohngeld Calculator Germany: Tenants & Single Parents

Housing Allowance & Rent Subsidies 3 min read · published September 07, 2025
Many tenants in Germany are unsure whether they are entitled to housing allowance or how to use the online Wohngeld calculator correctly. This article explains step by step how the calculator works, which income and rent details are required and what single parents should pay special attention to. You will also find practical sample letters for applications and objections as well as guidance on which official forms to use. We describe how to collect evidence, observe deadlines and, if necessary, seek help from authorities or the local court. The goal is that you can safely check your Wohngeld entitlement and submit the application correctly without legal expertise. At the end you will find a checklist and links to official agencies such as the Federal Ministry for Housing and the responsible state authorities.

Wohngeld Calculator: Requirements and Inputs

The Wohngeld calculator commonly asks for household income, rent costs, household size and special allowances. Enter honest values and have the following proofs ready:

  • Rental contract or current rent certificate as proof of rent.
  • Pay slips or notices about social benefits for all household members.
  • Proofs of maintenance payments, child benefits or special burdens.
Keep proofs in digital and paper form so documents are quickly available.

How the Calculator Interprets Results

The calculator provides a preliminary Wohngeld amount. This estimate does not replace the final review by the Wohngeld office. For single parents, child allowances and maintenance payments are considered; therefore document child support and payments carefully.

Complete documentation increases the chance of a positive decision.

Sample Letters: Application and Objection

Here are two compact templates. Replace placeholders and adjust data to your situation.

  • Template: Application for Wohngeld – use this letter to supplement your application or submit missing proofs.
  • Template: Objection against a rejection – file on time if the Wohngeld office rejects the application.
Submit objection letters within stated deadlines to preserve your rights.

Procedure Notes and Responsible Authorities

Wohngeld applications are processed by the local Wohngeld office; the legal basis is the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)[1]. For tenancy law issues arising from the Wohngeld procedure, the Civil Code §§ 535–580a and local district courts are relevant[2]. If a decision is missing or incorrectly calculated, request a written justification and, if necessary, file an objection.

Wohngeld is a municipal benefit; therefore check the forms of your city administration.

FAQ

Who can apply for Wohngeld?
In Germany, tenants with low income can apply for Wohngeld. Eligibility depends on income, household size and reasonable rent.
What are the deadlines for objection?
The objection against a Wohngeld decision must usually be filed within one month after notification; check the decision for the exact date.
Where do I submit the application?
Submit the application to your local Wohngeld office; many authorities offer online forms[3].

How-To

  1. Step 1: Gather documents – rental agreement, income statements and benefit notices.
  2. Step 2: Use the Wohngeld calculator – complete all fields and note the result.
  3. Step 3: Fill in the application – attach sample letters if needed and sign.
  4. Step 4: Submit the application – online or at the Wohngeld office; consider registered mail if necessary.

Help and Support / Resources


  1. [1] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
  2. [2] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
  3. [3] Wohngeld office Berlin — berlin.de
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Germany

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.