Housing benefit refused – what now?
A refusal is frustrating, but it is not the last word. The decision must state its reasons – and you can lodge an appeal (Widerspruch) against it. Here is how to proceed correctly.
Common reasons for refusal
- Income above the income limit
- Minimum income not reached
- Receiving other benefits (e.g. citizen's allowance)
- Documents incomplete or not submitted in time
Step 1: Check the decision
Read the decision carefully: it must explain why your application was refused and how the calculation was made. Often this already reveals whether an error was made – such as income recorded incorrectly.
Step 2: Lodge an appeal
If you disagree, lodge an appeal (Widerspruch) with the housing benefit office – in writing, with your reasons and supporting documents. You normally have one month to do so; the binding deadline is stated in the information on legal remedies (Rechtsbehelfsbelehrung) in your decision.
Step 3: Ask first Before appealing, a call to the housing benefit hotline is often worthwhile: some refusals are simply due to a missing document – which is quicker to resolve than any formal procedure.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to lodge an appeal?
Normally one month after the decision has been announced. The binding deadline is stated in the information on legal remedies in your decision.
When is an appeal worthwhile?
When the calculation is based on incorrect information or documents were assessed wrongly. Check the decision carefully – if in doubt, the housing benefit hotline can help.
What happens after I lodge my appeal?
The housing benefit office re-examines the decision and issues an appeal decision (Widerspruchsbescheid). If it upholds the refusal, you can take the matter to the social court (Sozialgericht).