Government Benefits
Kindergeld, BAföG, Wohngeld — what you're entitled to and how to get it.
The Problem
Many people don't know what support they're entitled to. Billions of euros in social benefits go unclaimed every year — because no one tells you about them.
Overview: What's Available?
| Benefit | For Whom | Amount (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Kindergeld | Parents with children | €259/month per child |
| BAföG | Students, trainees | up to €992/month |
| Wohngeld | Low-income households | typically €100–400 |
| Grundsicherungsgeld (called Bürgergeld until July 2026) [1] | Unemployed | €563 + rent |
| Elterngeld | Parents after birth | 65–100% of net income |
Common Mistakes
| ❌ Typical Behavior | ✅ Better Approach |
|---|---|
| Not applying for BAföG "because parents earn too much" | Check anyway — allowances are high |
| Ignoring Wohngeld | Even employed people may be eligible |
| Forgetting Kindergeld after 18 | Continues until 25 if studying |
| Delaying BAföG repayment | Early repayment = up to 21% discount |
Section Topics
- Kindergeld — child benefit
- Elterngeld — parental benefit
- Wohngeld — housing benefit
- BAföG — education grant and loan
- Unemployment benefits — ALG I, Grundsicherungsgeld
Key Numbers
- €259 Kindergeld per child per month (from January 2026)
- €992 maximum BAföG
- €10,010 maximum BAföG debt (capped)
- 21% discount for lump-sum BAföG repayment
Where to Start
- Check BAföG calculator — see if you qualify
- Check Wohngeld calculator — often overlooked
- Check Kindergeld status — are you still receiving it?
Apply on Time
Many benefits need to be requested. They're not paid automatically. Application deadlines are limited.
Sources
- Bundesagentur für Arbeit — Reform der Grundsicherung für Arbeitsuchende tritt am 1. Juli 2026 in Kraft, https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/presse/2026-20-reform-der-grundsicherung-fuer-arbeitsuchende-tritt-am-1-juli-2026-in-kraft (2026)