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What is a Wohnberechtigungsschein?
A Wohnberechtigungsschein is an official certificate for renting publicly subsidized housing. This housing is often called social housing in everyday language. The subsidy is intended to provide households with limited income with suitable and affordable housing. The legal basis arises in particular from the Housing Promotion Act and the regulations of the relevant federal state.[1]
The WBS usually states the permitted housing size and the number of people in the household. Depending on the federal state, there may be different types of WBS, for example for specific income groups or special housing needs. The certificate normally applies only for a limited period and often must be available before the tenancy agreement is signed.
Who can apply for a WBS?
Whether you receive a WBS depends mainly on the household income that is counted, the household size, and the income limits under state law. The relevant amount is not only your own income; normally, the income of everyone who is intended to move in is considered. Certain deductions, allowances, and special burdens may also be taken into account.
- You apply to the responsible housing authority, usually the housing office of your city or municipality.
- You must provide proof of your income and the income of all household members.
- Additional needs may be relevant because of a disability, pregnancy, or overcrowded housing conditions.
- The authority decides under the applicable rules of the federal state and issues the WBS when the requirements are met.
Which documents are needed?
The authority normally requires an application, identity documents, and income records. The exact list may vary locally. Submit complete and legible copies so that processing is not unnecessarily delayed.
- Completed WBS application form from the responsible authority.
- Identity cards or passports of all household members who will move in.
- Pay slips, pension notices, benefit notices, or other evidence of income and benefits.
- Evidence of pregnancy, disability, care needs, or a special social situation if relevant to the application.
- A power of attorney where another person submits the application for you.
Use the current form issued by your authority whenever possible. There is no single nationwide WBS form for all states and municipalities. Ask for the official form and whether you can submit the application online, in writing, or in person.
How the application works
The responsible office reviews the application. Processing time depends on whether the documents are complete and on the authority's workload. Keep a copy of the application and proof of submission. If your application is refused, read the reasons carefully and check whether an appeal is possible.
- Find out which housing office or housing promotion office is responsible for your main residence.
- Obtain the official application form and complete it for everyone who will move in.
- Collect income, identity, and, where applicable, evidence of special housing needs.
- Submit the application and ask for confirmation that it was received.
- Respond within the stated deadline to questions from the authority and check the issued WBS for housing-size and validity details.
Finding social housing with a WBS
After the certificate is issued, you must search for a suitable home yourself. Use municipal housing listings, housing companies, and advertisements that expressly require a WBS. Compare the permitted housing size, basic rent, operating costs, and required WBS type. Before signing, ask for an explanation of all ongoing costs.
- Before a viewing, ask whether the home is suitable for your WBS and household size.
- Check the basic rent, operating-cost advance, heating costs, and any deposit.
- Show the valid WBS when the landlord or housing company requests it.
- Keep listings, emails, and application documents in case questions later arise about your housing search.
A WBS does not replace a review of the tenancy agreement. General rules under the German Civil Code also apply to rent, operating costs, defects, and termination, especially the tenancy provisions in sections 535 to 580a BGB.[2] The local court generally has jurisdiction over disputes concerning termination, eviction proceedings, or rent reduction; higher instances may include the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice.[3]
What should you do if there are problems?
If the authority refuses the application or does not decide, request written information and review the instructions on legal remedies. If homelessness is imminent, contact the social welfare office, Jobcenter, or municipal homelessness service immediately. Court documents have stated deadlines; do not leave them unanswered.
A WBS does not automatically protect you from termination or eviction. If you have already received a termination notice or eviction claim, have the documents reviewed promptly by a qualified adviser. The Code of Civil Procedure contains procedural rules for civil proceedings, including eviction claims.[4]
Frequently asked questions about the WBS
- How long is a WBS valid?
- The period of validity is governed by the relevant state law and appears on the WBS. Check the expiry date before signing a tenancy agreement.
- Does a WBS automatically give me a home?
- No. The WBS only confirms eligibility to rent a suitable subsidized home. You must search and apply for housing yourself.
- Can I apply for a WBS if I already rent a home?
- Yes. An existing tenancy does not exclude an application. The authority reviews your current household and income situation.
- What happens if my income is slightly above the limit?
- This depends on the applicable state rules, allowances, and possible special funding routes. Ask the responsible authority to review the calculation.
How to apply for a WBS
- Identify the responsible housing authority.
- Obtain and complete the official form.
- Gather income and identity documents.
- Submit the application and keep confirmation of receipt.
- Search for suitable social housing with the valid WBS.
Help and further information
- Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building for information on housing promotion.
- Housing Promotion Act with the federal legal framework.
- German Civil Code for general tenancy-law rules.