Elterngeld

Elterngeld is a German government benefit that provides partial replacement of income after the birth or adoption of a child. It is designed to reduce the financial impact of taking time off work and to support parents during early childrearing. The benefit is paid monthly and is available to eligible parents regardless of gender, allowing the time taken off work to be shared between them.

Eligibility and calculation are based on residence in Germany and care for the child. Applicants typically must have had net earnings in the year before the birth or adoption and must apply through the appropriate family benefits office. Self-employed, employed, and part-time workers may qualify, subject to income and residency requirements. The amount of Elterngeld is calculated from prior net income and is intended to replace a portion of that income.

Basiselterngeld, the standard form of the benefit, pays between 300 and 1,800 euros per month. In general, the payout corresponds to about 65 to 67 percent of the parent’s previous net income, with lower or higher earnings resulting in proportionate adjustments. It can be received for up to 14 months per child, provided both parents participate in the process and share the leave.

ElterngeldPlus is a flexible option that extends the payout period up to about 28 months by delivering roughly half of the Basiselterngeld per month. This option is often chosen by parents who return to part-time work or want a longer transition period with a smaller monthly amount. There is also a partnership bonus for couples who work part-time simultaneously, which can add months of support.

Elterngeld is administered alongside Elternzeit, the parental leave, and the two programs together support families during the early years of a child’s life.