Who cannot get housing benefit?
Housing benefit (Wohngeld) is intended for households that cover their own living costs. Anyone receiving other benefits that already include housing costs cannot get housing benefit – duplicate support is to be avoided.
These benefits rule out housing benefit
- Citizen's allowance (Bürgergeld) or basic income support in old age and in cases of reduced earning capacity – housing costs are already included here
- Social assistance (assistance towards living costs, Sozialhilfe)
- Training support: BAföG and vocational training allowance (BAB)
- Benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act (Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz)
No housing benefit even if you waive benefits or they are cut A housing benefit entitlement does not arise because you waive the benefits listed above – nor if they are temporarily not paid because of benefit reductions.
Minimum amount: €10
If the calculation produces a housing benefit entitlement of less than €10 a month, no housing benefit is paid.
Further exclusions
Diplomats and members of foreign armed forces are also excluded – international agreements apply to them.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get housing benefit if I receive citizen's allowance?
No. Citizen's allowance already includes housing costs. Housing benefit only becomes an option once you no longer receive citizen's allowance.
Can I waive citizen's allowance in order to get housing benefit?
No. Even if you waive citizen's allowance, this does not create a housing benefit entitlement – nor does it if your benefits are temporarily reduced.
What is the minimum housing benefit amount?
€10 a month. If the calculated entitlement is below that, no housing benefit is paid.