Calculate the child supplement (Kinderzuschlag) for low-income families. Up to EUR 297 per child per month on top of Kindergeld.
What is the Kinderzuschlag and who is eligible?
The Kinderzuschlag is a monthly supplement of up to EUR 297 per child for low-income families who earn enough to support themselves but not enough to fully cover their children's needs. You must have a minimum income (EUR 600 for single parents, EUR 900 for couples), receive Kindergeld, and your income plus the Kinderzuschlag must be enough to avoid needing Buergergeld.
Can I receive Kinderzuschlag together with Kindergeld and Wohngeld?
Yes, Kinderzuschlag, Kindergeld, and Wohngeld can all be received simultaneously. In fact, the combination of these three benefits is specifically designed to lift families above the Buergergeld threshold. Receiving Kinderzuschlag also qualifies your family for additional benefits like free school meals and subsidized public transport through the Bildungs- und Teilhabepaket.
How is the Kinderzuschlag reduced with increasing income?
Income above the family's needs reduces the Kinderzuschlag by 45% of the excess. For example, if your income exceeds your family needs by EUR 200, the monthly Kinderzuschlag is reduced by EUR 90 (45% of EUR 200). The supplement reaches zero once your income fully covers all family needs including children.
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.
Extra support for low-income families on top of Kindergeld
What is Kinderzuschlag?
Kinderzuschlag is an extra monthly payment for low-income working families who earn enough to support themselves but not enough for their children. It pays up to €292 per child per month on top of Kindergeld. A family with two children could receive up to €584 in Kinderzuschlag plus €510 in Kindergeld = €1,094 per month for children alone.
Who qualifies for Kinderzuschlag?
You qualify if you earn a minimum of €900 gross per month (€600 for single parents), receive Kindergeld, and your income is not high enough to cover your family needs. You must not be receiving Bürgergeld. The Familienkasse calculates whether you qualify based on your income, rent, and number of children.
How does income affect the Kinderzuschlag amount?
Income above the minimum threshold gradually reduces the Kinderzuschlag. For every €10 of net income above the basic need, the supplement drops by €4.50. A couple earning €2,500 net with €800 rent and two children might receive about €200 per child. Use the Kinderzuschlag-Check at familienportal.de to calculate your exact entitlement.
What additional benefits come with Kinderzuschlag?
Families receiving Kinderzuschlag automatically qualify for the Bildungs- und Teilhabepaket (education and participation package). This covers free school lunches, school supplies (€174/year), public transport to school, subsidised club memberships and music lessons, and school trips. These benefits are worth several hundred euros per child per year.
How do you apply for Kinderzuschlag?
Apply online at familienportal.de or at your local Familienkasse. You need income proof (pay slips for the last 6 months), rental agreement, Kindergeld-Bescheid, and bank details. The application is valid for 6 months and must be renewed. Processing takes about 4 to 8 weeks.
Can you get Kinderzuschlag and Wohngeld together?
Yes, Kinderzuschlag and Wohngeld (housing benefit) can be combined. In fact, the Familienkasse checks whether Kinderzuschlag plus Wohngeld would prevent your need for Bürgergeld. If the combination covers your costs, you receive both instead of Bürgergeld. This is often financially better because fewer conditions and sanctions apply.
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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