Renewing and Increasing Wohngeld — How It Works

Wohngeld is only granted for a limited period — typically 15 months. After that, you must submit a renewal application if you wish to continue receiving Wohngeld. You may also apply for an increase under certain conditions.

Renewing Wohngeld — The Renewal Application

The approval period is stated on your approval notice. You should submit the renewal application about two months before the end of this period. This avoids a payment gap — as Wohngeld is not automatically continued.

What's new with the renewal application:

• You must re-prove your income for the last 12 months
• A new landlord certificate is required (even if the rent has not changed)
• All other documents must be resubmitted and up to date
• The renewal application is not an informal application — you must complete the full application form

What Happens If I Miss the Deadline?

If you submit the renewal application after the approval period has expired, a payment gap will occur. Wohngeld is not paid retroactively for past months — it only starts again from the month of re-application. So do not miss the deadline.

Increasing Wohngeld — When Is This Possible?

You can apply for an increase in Wohngeld under the following circumstances:

1. Income Has Decreased

If your income has fallen by more than 15 percent — for example through job loss, retirement or switching to part-time — Wohngeld can be increased. You must report the income change to the Wohngeld office and submit the new evidence.

2. Rent Has Increased

A rent increase can lead to higher Wohngeld — provided the new rent is still within the maximum amount according to Rent Level IV. Submit the rent increase and the new landlord certificate.

3. Household Has Grown

The birth of a child or a relative moving in (e.g. parents in need of care) increases the household size and thus both the income limit and the maximum rent amount. This can lead to higher Wohngeld.

4. Statutory Increase (Like 2026)

With statutory Wohngeld increases (such as the one on 1 January 2026), Wohngeld is usually adjusted automatically. You do not need to submit a separate application. Information on this can be found on your Wohngeld Increase 2026.

Applying for an Increase — How to Proceed

1. Check the requirements: Has your income decreased? Has your rent increased? Or has your household grown?
2. Gather the evidence: New income proof, updated landlord certificate, birth certificate or registration certificate if applicable
3. Submit a change application: Use the regular application form and tick 'Change application'. Or submit the change informally stating your reference number.
4. Wait for the decision: The Wohngeld office recalculates Wohngeld based on the new information. You will receive a change notice.