Housing benefit requirements in Hamburg
Whether you get housing benefit (Wohngeld) depends on four things: your income, your rent, your household size – and on not receiving any other benefits. Here you will find all the rules and limits for Hamburg with rent level 6.
The requirements at a glance
Minimum income
Your income must generally cover your living costs – as a rule of thumb, 80 per cent of the standard rate plus your rent including heating.
Income limit
Your total income must not exceed the limit for your household. The generous rent level 6 limits apply in Hamburg.
No transfer benefits
Citizen's allowance, basic income support, social assistance, BAföG/BAB and asylum seekers' benefits all rule out housing benefit.
Protected assets
Savings of up to €60,000 (first person) or €30,000 (each additional person) are disregarded.
Residence in Germany
Residence or habitual abode in Germany – your nationality does not matter.
All requirements in detail
The individual building blocks of the eligibility check – explained step by step:
Income limits 2026
The housing benefit income limit is not a fixed amount – it depends on the number of household members and the rent level. Hamburg is in rent level 6. Here is the complete table for 2026.
Learn moreMinimum income
Housing benefit (Wohngeld) is a subsidy towards housing costs – not assistance with living costs. That is why the law requires a minimum income: you must be able to cover your living costs yourself in principle.
Learn moreFrequently asked questions
Is there a fixed income limit for Hamburg?
No. The income limit depends on household size and rent level. Hamburg is in rent level 6 – you will find the full table on the income limits page.
Does the housing benefit office check my assets?
Yes, but with generous protected limits: savings of up to €60,000 for the first person and €30,000 for each additional person are disregarded.
Can I get housing benefit as an owner-occupier?
There is a burden subsidy (Lastenzuschuss) for owner-occupiers. This website focuses on the rent subsidy for tenants in Hamburg.