Wohngeld

Wohngeld is a German government subsidy designed to help eligible households cover part of their housing costs. It is not a loan and does not have to be repaid. The program targets residents with low or moderate income and is available to both renters (Mieter) and owner-occupiers (Eigentümer) who live in the dwelling as their primary residence. The aim is to reduce the share of income spent on housing and improve housing affordability.

Eligibility depends on several factors: the household’s income, the number of people living in the home, the location (city or state), and the actual housing costs (rent or equivalent costs for owner-occupied housing). There are income limits and rules that determine the amount of support. Applicants must be residents of Germany and use the dwelling as their main home. Certain groups, such as some students or people with higher incomes, may not qualify.

Administration and application: Wohngeld is managed by the Wohngeldstelle of the local municipality or district authority. Applicants submit forms with proof of income, the rental contract or ownership details, and evidence of housing costs. Applications can often be filed online in many regions. After submission, the authority reviews the information and issues a decision, usually within several weeks if the application is complete.

Amount and effect: The monthly Wohngeld depends on factors including income, household size, and eligible housing costs, and varies by location. The subsidy is paid to the recipient to offset rent or housing costs; the recipient may use the payment directly or, in some cases, have it paid to the landlord. The program is governed by the Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) and funded through federal and state mechanisms.