Elterngeld — Parental Allowance

What is it?

Elterngeld is money from the state for parents who care for a child and do not work (or work less).

How much will you get?

65-67% of your last net salary, but:
- Minimum: €300/month
- Maximum: €1,800/month

Examples:

| Net salary | Elterngeld |
|--------------|------------||
| €1,500 | ~€1,000 |
| €2,500 | ~€1,625 |
| €3,500 | €1,800 (max) |

How long?

Basiselterngeld (basic):

• 12 months for one parent
• +2 months if the other parent also takes it (14 months total)

ElterngeldPlus:

• Half the amount, but double the time (up to 28 months)
• Ideal if you work part-time

Who can get it?

• You live in Germany
• You live with the child and raise it
• You work max 32 hours/week
• Income below €200,000 annually (or €300,000 for couples)

How to apply?

1. Where: Elterngeldstelle in your city
2. When: After birth, but retroactively max 3 months
3. Documents:
4. Child's birth certificate
5. Certificate from employer
6. Pay stubs (12 months before birth)
7. Certificate from Krankenkasse (health insurance)

Elterngeld vs Kindergeld

These are DIFFERENT benefits!
- Kindergeld (€255) — you get it ALWAYS until age 18
- Elterngeld — only for 12-14 months after birth

Important!

• Apply AS SOON AS POSSIBLE (retroactive payment only 3 months)
• You can split it with your partner as you wish
• You can combine it with part-time work

Editorial hamboorg.city · As of: April 2026 · Carefully prepared, regularly updated. Content is informational and does not replace legal advice.