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Child Benefit and Child Supplement in Germany: How Can You Apply for Them?
In Germany, there are various types of family benefits that provide financial support to families with children. The best-known of these are Child Benefit (Kindergeld) and Child Supplement (Kinderzuschuss). In this article, we explain who is entitled to these benefits and how to submit the applications correctly.
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Child Basic Security (Basic Child Supplement) is currently an initiative of the German government and is in the planning phase. The aim of this initiative is to bundle and simplify various existing forms of financial support for families with children, such as child benefit and child supplement, into a uniform system.
Child Benefit (Kindergeld)
Child Benefit (Kindergeld) is a monthly payment that parents receive to cover the costs of raising and educating their children. This child benefit is paid for each child up to the age of 18 and can also be granted beyond this under certain conditions, e.g. if the child is undergoing training or has a disability.
Who can apply for Child Benefit?
– Parents who live and work in Germany.
– Foreign nationals with a valid residence permit.
– German citizens living abroad (under certain conditions).
How can you apply for Child Benefit?
– Fill out the application:
The application for child benefit is submitted to the Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse). The application form is available on the website of the Family Benefits Office or can be picked up from a local authority.
– Submit the required documents:
The application must include the personal data of the parents and children. In addition, the following documents are required: Copies of the children’s birth certificates, documents confirming the applicant’s status (e.g. residence permit for foreigners).
– Submit application:
The application with the required documents must be sent to the responsible Family Benefits Office at the place of residence. Processing can take several weeks, after which you will receive an official decision.
Child Supplement (Kinderzuschuss)
Child Supplement (Kinderzuschuss) is additional financial support for families with low incomes. This benefit is paid in addition to Child Benefit (Kindergeld) and is intended to help families who are financially unable to fully cover the basic needs of their children.
Who can apply for Child Supplement?
– Families with low incomes who already receive child benefit.
– Parents who work part-time or have fixed-term employment contracts.
– Single parents who have financial difficulties.
How can you apply for Child Supplement?
– Fill out the application:
The application for child supplement is also submitted to the Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse). The form can be downloaded from the official website of the Family Benefits Office.
– Submit the required documents:
In addition to the documents required for Child Benefit (Kindergeld), the following proof must also be submitted: Income statements of the family, proof of rental costs, other relevant financial documents.
– Submit application:
The completed application and all necessary documents must be sent to the Family Benefits Office (Familienkasse). Processing can take several weeks. After checking all the details, you will receive an official decision on your application.
Receiving child benefit and child supplement in Germany is a significant financial support for families with children. These benefits help to ensure a stable economic situation and create a good environment for raising children. On our website, you will find detailed instructions on how to apply for child benefit and child supplement, current forms and templates, and advice on all questions relating to these benefits.