Wohngeld Checklist for WG Tenants in Germany
As a WG tenant in Germany, it is important to know whether and how you can apply for housing benefit (Wohngeld). This checklist explains in plain language who is eligible, which documents each shared flat membership requires, and how to report income correctly. I provide practical examples for typical WG constellations, show deadlines and common mistakes in the application, and explain which authorities are responsible. The guidance helps you prepare the application completely, collect proofs and avoid problems such as repayments. If necessary, you will also learn when to consider legal steps and which courts decide in tenancy and housing benefit matters. I name official forms, explain typical income limits and give tips for dealing with the housing benefit office.
Who can receive housing benefit for a shared flat?
Housing benefit is a social support payment to help with housing costs. In a shared flat (WG) there can be either a common household or several households within one apartment. It is decisive how housekeeping is organized: do people live economically together or separately? Tenancy law principles and eligibility requirements are guided by the German Civil Code (BGB) and specific statutory regulations.[1]
Typical entitlement situations
- Joint lease: All tenants are named in the contract and form one household.
- Subletting: Individual subtenants can have their own entitlement if household management is separate.
- Shared costs: With joint economic management, income and rent are considered proportionally.
Important documents for the housing benefit application
Before applying, gather all proofs. Different housing benefit offices require similar documents; check local requirements before sending the application.
- Completed housing benefit application form (there is a model form for each federal state).
- Identity card or passport of all applicants.
- Income proofs for recent months (pay slips, notices).
- Proof of rent payment (rental contract, bank statements, receipts).
How to submit the application: step by step
Submit the application to the competent housing benefit office of your city or municipality. The office reviews the eligibility and calculates the amount of the subsidy. If you have questions, you can clarify by phone in advance which documents are needed in your case.[2]
Deadlines and processing times
Housing benefit is usually granted only from the month of application. Apply as early as possible if rent costs are a burden. For subsequent changes (e.g., a roommate moves out), inform the housing benefit office.
Competent authorities and legal matters
Housing benefit offices are usually part of the municipal administration; in disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent. For legal questions about the tenancy agreement or repayments, clarification before the Amtsgericht may be necessary.[3]
FAQ
- Can a subtenant apply for housing benefit?
- Yes, a subtenant can under certain conditions have their own entitlement if household management is separate.
- Which types of income are counted?
- All regular incomes such as wages, salaries and certain social benefits are reviewed; allowances may apply.
- What happens in case of incorrect information?
- Errors or incomplete information can lead to repayments or fines; report changes promptly.
How-To
- Collect all relevant documents: rental contract, IDs and income proofs.
- Calculate your assessable income and check for possible allowances.
- Complete the housing benefit application form and attach the proofs.
- Submit the application to the housing benefit office and note the receipt confirmation.
- If the decision is negative, check objection or lawsuit deadlines and seek advice.
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB: German Civil Code - gesetze-im-internet.de
- Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- Housing benefit information and forms (example: Berlin) - berlin.de
