Wohngeld guides in English

German housing benefit (Wohngeld) explained in plain English, with references to the law. To work out your own amount, use the Wohngeld calculator.

The basics

• How to apply for Wohngeld: step by stepWho can apply, where to apply, the five steps and what happens after approval.
• Documents for your Wohngeld applicationTenancy agreement, proof of income and the extra papers you only need in some cases.
• Wohngeld income limits 2026 and 2027Tables by household size and rent level, and what the limits mean as a gross salary.
• Wohngeld for pensionersHow your pension is counted, the extra allowances and examples by pension amount.

Common questions

• Wohngeld eligibility: who can get housing benefit?You can get Wohngeld if you pay rent or the costs of your own home, your income is below the limit and you get no basic income support. The rules explained.
• Is applying for Wohngeld free of charge?Yes – applying at the housing benefit office costs nothing. What private services like Einfach Wohngeld offer, what they may charge and how to spot a reputable one.

More guides in German

We have many more guides – for example on child benefit, single parents, students, parental allowance, owner-occupiers and processing times. For now, these are only available in German. See all guides (in German)