Housing benefit for pensioners in Hamburg
If your pension is not enough to pay the rent, housing benefit (Wohngeld) can help – even in old age. In Hamburg, pensioners are one of the largest groups of housing benefit recipients.
Why housing benefit matters for pensioners
Rents in Hamburg are rising faster than many pensions. Housing benefit closes this gap: it pays a subsidy towards the gross rent – on top of your pension. After the 2023 Wohngeld Plus reform, the number of housing benefit households in Hamburg without earned income more than doubled.
When are pensioners entitled?
Your pension – whether a state pension, a civil service pension or a company pension – counts as income. You must reach the minimum income and stay within the income limit, which depends on household size and rent level.
Important: anyone receiving basic income support in old age (Grundsicherung im Alter) or assistance towards living costs (Hilfe zum Lebensunterhalt) cannot receive housing benefit. Conversely: if your pension together with housing benefit is enough to cover your living costs, housing benefit is the priority benefit – basic income support is then not necessary.
Your savings stay protected
Savings of up to €60,000 for the first person and €30,000 for each additional person in the household are disregarded for housing benefit. An owner-occupied home of appropriate size and a reasonable private pension plan also count as protected assets.
Good to know Housing benefit is normally granted for twelve months. After that, you submit a renewal application – with the documents from the previous approval period, this is much simpler.
Frequently asked questions
As a pensioner, do I get housing benefit if I receive basic income support?
No. Basic income support in old age already includes housing costs. A housing benefit entitlement only arises once you no longer need basic income support – for example because your pension plus housing benefit covers your needs.
Does my pension count as income for housing benefit?
Yes. State pensions, civil service pensions and company pensions are included in the total income taken into account. The key point is that you must not exceed your household's income limit.
How much housing benefit will I get as a pensioner?
It depends on your pension, rent and household size. In 2023, the average housing benefit in Hamburg was around €318 a month. Your personal amount is determined by the calculation under the Housing Benefit Act.