Estimate your housing benefit (Wohngeld) based on household income, size, and rent level in your municipality.
What is Wohngeld and who can receive it?
Wohngeld is a German housing benefit for low-income households that do not receive Buergergeld or other transfer payments. It is available to both renters (Mietzuschuss) and homeowners (Lastenzuschuss). The amount depends on household size, income, and the local rent level (Mietstufe I-VII). Since the 2023 reform (Wohngeld Plus), significantly more households are eligible.
What are the Mietstufen (rent levels)?
Germany classifies municipalities into 7 rent levels (Mietstufe I to VII) based on local rental market conditions. Mietstufe I represents areas with the lowest rents, while Mietstufe VII covers the most expensive cities like Munich and Frankfurt. The Mietstufe determines the maximum rent amount that counts toward your Wohngeld calculation.
Can I receive Wohngeld alongside Kindergeld?
Yes, Wohngeld and Kindergeld can be received simultaneously. Kindergeld does count as household income when calculating Wohngeld eligibility, but receiving Kindergeld does not disqualify you. However, you cannot receive Wohngeld if you already receive Buergergeld, as housing costs are already covered in that benefit.
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.
Who qualifies, how much you receive, and how to apply
What is Wohngeld?
Wohngeld is a government housing subsidy for low-income households who earn too much for Bürgergeld but struggle with housing costs. It helps both renters (Mietzuschuss) and homeowners (Lastenzuschuss). After the 2023 reform (Wohngeld Plus), about 2 million households qualify. The average payment is about €370 per month.
Who qualifies for Wohngeld?
You qualify if your household income is low relative to your rent and household size. As a rough guide: a single person earning up to about €1,600 net per month, or a couple with two children earning up to about €2,800 net, may qualify. You must not already receive Bürgergeld, BAföG, or Asylbewerberleistungen. Students usually cannot claim Wohngeld.
How much Wohngeld do you receive?
The amount depends on: household size, total income, and eligible rent (capped by local Mietstufe). A single person with €1,200 net income and €500 rent in a Mietstufe III city might receive about €200-€300 per month. A family of four with €2,400 income and €900 rent might receive €350-€500. Use the online Wohngeldrechner at bmwsb.bund.de for your estimate.
How do you apply for Wohngeld?
Apply at your local Wohngeldstelle (housing benefit office), usually part of the city or district administration. You need: proof of income (pay slips for 3-6 months), rental agreement, ID, and bank details. Processing takes 3 to 6 weeks. Wohngeld is granted for 12 months and must be renewed before it expires. It is not paid retroactively before the month of application.
Can you combine Wohngeld with other benefits?
Yes, Wohngeld can be combined with Kindergeld, Kinderzuschlag, and the Bildungs- und Teilhabepaket. In fact, receiving Wohngeld plus Kinderzuschlag can prevent the need for Bürgergeld, which comes with more obligations. Wohngeld cannot be combined with Bürgergeld — you receive one or the other.
Is Wohngeld taxable?
No, Wohngeld is completely tax-free and does not need to be declared in your income tax return. It does not affect the Progressionsvorbehalt either. Receiving Wohngeld has no negative impact on your tax situation. It is purely a social benefit based on housing needs.
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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