Child Allowance

Child Benefit in Germany

Child benefit (Kindergeld) is government financial support that helps parents cover the costs of raising children. It is intended to cover the basic needs and maintenance of children.

Who is entitled to child benefit?

All parents who have their main residence in Germany can receive child benefit, provided the other requirements are met.

Age-related eligibility

• From birth to 18 years: Standard entitlement
• From 18 to 21 years: If the child is unemployed but has completed vocational training
• Up to 25 years:
  • If the child is in education or university studies
  • If the child is actively seeking a training position
  • If the child is completing a voluntary social or ecological year

In general, entitlement ends once the child turns 25.

Application

Child benefit is paid out by the Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse) of the Federal Employment Agency. An application is required to receive child benefit.

Amount of child benefit from 2026

Who receives child benefit?

Only one person per child receives the payment.

• If both parents live together: Payment goes to the account specified in the application.
• If the child lives with one parent only: That parent receives the benefit.
• In some cases, grandparents or guardians may also be entitled.

Any changes to the address, custody, or household situation must be reported to the Family Benefits Office.

Tax Identification Number

Since 2016, providing the tax ID has been mandatory.

Renewing the application

No, child benefit is automatically continued as long as the requirements are met.

However, changes must be reported. Otherwise, repayment may be required.

Payment dates

Payments are made monthly, depending on the last digit of the child benefit number:

• 0 or 1: Beginning of the month
• 8 or 9: End of the month

Child Benefit Supplement

In addition to child benefit, families with low income can receive a supplement of up to €292 per child.

Requirements

• The child lives in the household.
• The child is under 25 years old and unmarried.
• Minimum income:
  • Couples: €900 per month
  • Single parents: €600 per month
• Assets must not exceed the allowed limit.

Retroactive applications

Applications can be submitted up to 6 months retroactively. If approved, payments will be backdated accordingly.

More information

Application forms and further details are available from your Family Benefits Office or online at the Federal Employment Agency.