Wohngeld Amount — How Much Can I Get?
The amount of Wohngeld is calculated individually for each household. It depends on three factors: the number of household members, your total income level and your eligible rent or housing costs. In Düsseldorf, Rent Level IV adds a fourth favourable factor.
Rule of thumb: The more people in the household, the lower the income and the higher the rent (up to the maximum amount) — the higher the Wohngeld. However, there is no fixed percentage of rent that is reimbursed. The calculation follows a complex statutory formula.
The Wohngeld Formula (Simplified)
Wohngeld is calculated according to § 19 of the Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG). The simplified formula is:
Wohngeld = 1.15 × (M − (a + b × M + c × Y) × Y)
Where:
- M = the eligible rent or housing costs (up to the maximum amount according to rent level)
- Y = the total income as defined by the Wohngeldgesetz (after deduction of all allowances)
- a, b, c = statutory parameters that depend on household size and rent level
This formula is automatically calculated by the Wohngeld authority for each individual case. You do not need to deal with the formula yourself — but understanding it helps you better assess your situation.
The Three Influencing Factors in Detail
1. Household Size — The Most Important Factor
Household size determines both the income limit and the maximum rent amount. With each additional household member, both values increase — and thus potentially the Wohngeld as well.
| Household Members | Max. Income (approx.) | Max. Rent (Rent Level IV) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | 1.400 € | 456 € |
| 2 Persons | 1.900 € | 555 € |
| 3 Persons | 2.400 € | 663 € |
| 4 Persons | 2.900 € | 776 € |
| 5 Persons | 3.400 € | 887 € |
2. Income — The Less, the More Wohngeld
The income as defined by the Wohngeldgesetz is first reduced by flat-rate deductions and allowances. The lower the remaining income, the higher the Wohngeld. With very low income, Wohngeld can reach the maximum amount — which is 1.15 times the maximum rent amount.
3. Eligible Rent — Up to the Maximum Amount
Only the portion of your rent that falls within the maximum amount is taken into account in the calculation. If your rent exceeds the maximum amount, the excess is not counted. If your rent is below it, the actual amount is used. A rent lower than the maximum amount reduces the potential Wohngeld.
Wohngeld Table — All Amounts at a Glance
The exact Wohngeld amounts for each combination of household size, income and rent can be found in the Wohngeld table. We have prepared the complete table for Düsseldorf (Rent Level IV) with the current figures for you.
→ To the complete Düsseldorf Wohngeld table 2026