Housing & RegistrationUpdated September 2026 · 8 min read

Housing Benefit (Wohngeld) in Germany 2026 – Eligibility, Amount and Application

Wohngeld helps low-income households with housing costs. Tenants receive a rent subsidy (Mietzuschuss); eligible owner-occupiers receive an encumbrance allowance (Lastenzuschuss). This guide explains the rules that apply in 2026, how the amount is calculated, and how to apply.

Quick answer: Apply to the housing benefit office of your city, municipality or district. The amount depends on household size, assessable income, eligible rent or owner costs, and the local rent level. In 2026, the calculation adjusted on 1 January 2025 remains applicable; only the authority can issue a binding decision.

What is Wohngeld and what applies in 2026?

Wohngeld is a government grant, not a loan. It is paid as a rent subsidy to tenants, subtenants and some care-home residents, or as an encumbrance allowance for owner-occupied property. The latest scheduled adjustment took effect on 1 January 2025; according to the federal ministry, average entitlements rose by around 15 percent. That basis also applies in 2026, while the next reform is announced for 2027. Official BMWSB information.

Who may qualify?

There is no single nationwide income ceiling. The authority considers the number of eligible household members, total income under Wohngeld rules, eligible rent or owner costs, and the municipality’s rent level.

  • Tenants and subtenants: may receive Mietzuschuss.
  • Owner-occupiers: may receive Lastenzuschuss for their own home.
  • Families, single parents, workers and pensioners: may qualify on a low income.
  • Students: only in certain cases, for example when not every household member is eligible for BAföG in principle.
Important: People whose basic-income, old-age assistance, subsistence assistance or certain asylum-seeker benefits already include housing costs are normally excluded. Details and exceptions are in Section 7 WoGG.

How much Wohngeld is paid in 2026?

There is no reliable flat amount. Identical rents can produce different results because income, household size and rent level differ. Since the Wohngeld-Plus reform, a flat-rate heating component and climate component are included; the actual heating bill is not reimbursed euro for euro.

Check first: Use the official BMWSB calculator for an estimate. Only the authority’s decision is legally binding.

How to apply: step by step

  • 1
    Find the correct office

    Search for “Wohngeld” in the Federal Portal and select your location.

  • 2
    Estimate your claim

    Use the official calculator. Its result is non-binding.

  • 3
    Submit the correct application

    Apply online, by post or in person, depending on the local office. Tenants use Mietzuschuss; owner-occupiers use Lastenzuschuss.

  • 4
    Supply evidence and check the decision

    Answer requests on time. Check household members, income, rent, approval period and bank details in the decision.

Which documents are usually required?

  • Completed Mietzuschuss or Lastenzuschuss application
  • Passport or ID; non-German applicants should also provide their residence permit
  • Tenancy agreement and current proof of rent and service charges
  • Income evidence for all relevant household members
  • For owners: evidence of loan charges, property tax, operating and maintenance costs
  • Additional evidence depending on circumstances, such as maintenance payments, disability or childcare costs

When do payments start and how long is approval valid?

The approval period normally starts on the first day of the month in which the application reaches the office. Earlier months are covered only in statutory exceptions. Under Section 25 WoGG, approval should normally run for twelve months and may extend to 24 months if circumstances are expected to remain stable.

Practical tip: Submit the application before the month ends even if individual documents are still missing. Ask what may be supplied later and meet the deadline set by the office.

Wohngeld for foreign nationals

People without German citizenship may generally receive Wohngeld if they reside legally in Germany and meet all other conditions. The housing benefit office checks whether the residence status and household qualify. If accommodation is already covered through an excluded social benefit, Wohngeld is normally not paid.

Frequently asked questions

Can I receive Wohngeld and basic income support together?

Normally not if the other benefit already covers housing costs. Statutory exceptions exist and the authorities assess each case.

How much will I receive in 2026?

It depends on household size, assessable income, eligible housing costs and local rent level.

When do payments begin?

Normally from the first day of the month in which the office receives the application.

Are my actual heating costs reimbursed?

No. A flat-rate heating component enters the calculation; it is not a full reimbursement of the bill.

Can foreigners apply?

Generally yes with lawful residence and if all other requirements are met. The office checks the residence status and household.

Next step: Wohngeldbehörde.