Wohngeld — Housing Allowance

What is it?

Wohngeld is a housing cost subsidy from the state for people with low incomes.

Who can get it?

• You have legal residence in Germany
• You have low income (but some income!)
• You do NOT receive Bürgergeld, BAföG, or Asylbewerberleistungen

How much can you get?

Depends on:
- Income
- Number of people in the household
- Rent amount
- City (different limits apply)

Approximate amounts (2025):

How to apply?

1. Where: Wohngeldstelle in your city (Rathaus/Bürgeramt)
2. Form: Wohngeldantrag (online or paper)

Documents needed:

• ID/passport + Anmeldung
• Lease agreement (Mietvertrag)
• Income certificate (all household members)
• Latest Nebenkostenabrechnung
• Bank statements (Kontoauszüge)

How long does it take?

• Processing: 4-8 weeks
• Approved for 12 months
• After that, you must submit a new application

Wohngeld and other benefits

Wohngeld Calculator

Check how much you can get:
- wohngeldrechner.de
- bmwsb.bund.de

Important!

• Submit your application IMMEDIATELY — there is no retroactive payment
• Report changes in income/rent
• You can receive Wohngeld even while working full-time!