Kindergeld beantragen — Step by Step

What is Kindergeld?

Kindergeld is a state benefit for families in Germany. Since 2023, it amounts to €250 per month per child. It is generally available to all parents living in Germany — including foreigners with a valid residence permit.

Who is eligible?

• Parents with residence in Germany (registration required)
• EU citizens: automatically eligible
• Non-EU citizens: with a residence permit that authorizes employment
• Child must be under 18 years old (up to 25 if in vocational training/studies)

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Only 6 months retroactively!

Kindergeld is only paid 6 months retroactively. Submit your application as early as possible!

What documents do you need?

1. Kindergeld application (Form KG 1) — online or at Familienkasse
2. Birth certificate of the child (with apostille or certified translation)
3. Tax ID of the child and the parent applying
4. Registration certificate (proof of registration)
5. Residence permit (copy, for non-EU citizens)
6. For children abroad: additional documents (Form KG 51)

Where do you apply for Kindergeld?

At the Familienkasse of the Federal Employment Agency:
- Online: www.arbeitsagentur.de → Familienkasse
- In person: at your local Familienkasse office
- By mail: complete forms and send them

Processing time

Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks. During peak times, it can take up to 3 months.

Kinderzuschlag — Additional support

If your income is low, you can apply for additional Kinderzuschlag (up to €250/month per child). Requirement: you already receive Kindergeld and your income is insufficient.

Avoid common mistakes

• ❌ Submitting application too late (claim expires after 6 months)
• ❌ Forgetting the tax ID (no payment without it)
• ❌ Submitting birth certificate without translation
• ❌ Not reporting address changes (Kindergeld will be suspended)

Tips

• The tax ID is automatically sent by mail — approx. 2–4 weeks after registration
• You can submit your application before receiving your tax ID
• For questions: free hotline of Familienkasse 0800 4 5555 30