Calculate your monthly child benefit (Kindergeld) and compare with Kinderfreibetrag to see which option saves you more.
Recommendation
The Kinderfreibetrag provides a higher tax benefit at your income level. The tax office will automatically credit you the difference when filing your return.
What is the Guenstigerpruefung for Kindergeld vs Kinderfreibetrag?
The Guenstigerpruefung is an automatic check performed by the German tax office (Finanzamt) when you file your annual tax return. It compares the total Kindergeld received during the year with the tax savings from the Kinderfreibetrag (EUR 9,600 per child in 2025). Whichever option provides the greater benefit is automatically applied — you do not need to choose in advance.
How much is Kindergeld in 2025?
In 2025, Kindergeld is EUR 255 per month for each child, regardless of the number of children. This means a family with 2 children receives EUR 510/month (EUR 6,120/year), and a family with 3 children receives EUR 765/month (EUR 9,180/year). Kindergeld is paid until the child turns 18, or until 25 if they are in education or training.
At what income level does the Kinderfreibetrag become more beneficial?
The Kinderfreibetrag typically becomes more beneficial for single parents with taxable income above approximately EUR 75,000-80,000, or for married couples filing jointly above roughly EUR 150,000. At these income levels, the marginal tax rate is high enough that the EUR 9,600 deduction per child saves more than the EUR 3,060 annual Kindergeld. The exact threshold depends on your individual tax situation.
Disclaimer: These calculations are estimates based on 2025 German tax rules and should not be considered professional tax advice. Consult a Steuerberater for your specific situation.
How much you receive per child, who qualifies, and how to apply
How much Kindergeld do you get per child?
In 2025, Kindergeld is €255 per month for each child. This is the same amount regardless of whether it is your first, second, or fourth child. For a family with two children, that is €510 per month or €6,120 per year. Kindergeld is paid by the Familienkasse, part of the Bundesagentur für Arbeit.
Who can receive Kindergeld?
All parents living in Germany with children under 18 can receive Kindergeld, regardless of income. It extends to age 25 if the child is in education, training, or a voluntary service. EU citizens working in Germany can claim it even if the child lives in another EU country. You must have a German tax ID and be registered in Germany.
How do Kindergeld and Kinderfreibetrag work together?
The Finanzamt automatically checks which is better for you (Günstigerprüfung). The Kinderfreibetrag is €6,612 per child per year plus €2,928 for care and education. For high earners, the Freibetrag saves more tax than the Kindergeld is worth. The break-even point is roughly €80,000 taxable income for a single parent. You always receive Kindergeld first and settle the difference in your tax return.
How do you apply for Kindergeld?
Apply at your local Familienkasse using form KG 1 (available online at familienkasse.de). You need your tax ID, your child birth certificate, and proof of address. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks. Kindergeld is paid monthly directly to your bank account. Apply as soon as possible after birth — it is only backdated 6 months.
Is Kindergeld taxable?
No, Kindergeld itself is not taxable income. However, if the Kinderfreibetrag gives you a bigger tax advantage, the Kindergeld you received is effectively added back to your tax bill (it is offset against the Freibetrag benefit). This happens automatically in the Günstigerprüfung. For most average earners, Kindergeld remains the better option.
What happens to Kindergeld if you move abroad?
If you move to another EU country but still work in Germany, you can keep receiving German Kindergeld. If both parents work in different EU countries, the country where the children live pays first, and the other tops up the difference. Moving outside the EU generally ends your Kindergeld entitlement unless a bilateral social security agreement applies.
Bundesfinanzministerium-Aligned: Based on 2025 Bundesfinanzministerium rates and thresholds. For personal advice, speak to a qualified Steuerberater (tax adviser).
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on current German tax rates and thresholds for the 2025 tax year. It does not constitute professional tax, financial, or legal advice. Your actual liability may differ depending on your individual circumstances. Always consult a qualified tax adviser before making financial decisions. Read our terms
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