Guide to Applying for Child Benefit (Kindergeld) in Germany

Table of Contents

Description

What is it?

Child Benefit, known as Kindergeld, is a monthly payment given by the German state to parents living in Germany to help cover some of the cost of raising their children.

Who needs it?

All parents or guardians who are residents or employees in Germany are entitled to receive this benefit for their children.

Procedure

  1. Fill up the application form for the Child Benefit(KG1). The form will ask for details about you and your child.
  2. Include details of your bank account where the payment will be transferred to.
  3. Submit the application to your local Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse). If you are unsure where this is located, try contacting your local Agentur für Arbeit or your local town administration (Rathaus) and ask them where you can file the application.
  4. If you are applying for more than one child, complete the Kindergeld Additional Child supplement application (KG1K).

Required Documents

  • Valid ID or passport for the parents and the child
  • Birth certificate or proof of birth for the child
  • Proof of residence or employment in Germany
  • Proof of income (for certain circumstances)
  • Proof of the child’s regular residence with one or both parents (if applicable)

Providers that can do it for you

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Additional details

  • The applications are processed within six weeks on average, but during peak times this can take longer.
  • If the child lives with both parents, only one parent can claim Kindergeld.
  • For a delay in payment, it’s advised to promptly contact the relevant Familienkasse.
  • Certain criteria may affect the amount of Kindergeld received, such as the child’s age and whether they are in education or employment.
  • You have to apply for it when you have a child in Germany, it’s not granted automatically.

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