Kindergeld – Child Benefits #

Kindergeld in Germany: how to apply for child benefits.

If you live in Germany and have children, you may be eligible for Kindergeld, a monthly child benefit provided by the government to help cover the costs of raising a child. This guide will explain everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to the application process.

Who Can Receive Kindergeld? #

You can receive Kindergeld if:

• Your child is under 18 years old (or up to 25 years old in certain cases, such as if they are studying or in vocational training).
• Your child lives mostly in your household and is under your care.
• You live and work in Germany (or you are a German citizen living in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, or Liechtenstein).

There are no income restrictions—every eligible parent receives Kindergeld regardless of their salary.

How Much Kindergeld Can You Get? #

In 2025, the monthly Kindergeld amount is €255 per child.

How Long Will You Receive Kindergeld? #

• Until the child turns 18 (automatically).
• Up to 21 years if the child is unemployed and actively job-seeking.
• Up to 25 years if the child is:
  • Studying or in vocational training.
  • Waiting for a training or internship opportunity.
  • In a voluntary social or environmental service program.
• Beyond 25 years if the child has a disability and cannot support themselves.

How is Kindergeld Paid? #

• Payments go to one parent or guardian (not split between both parents).
• If you have multiple children, the total amount is paid in one sum.
• Payments are made monthly based on your Kindergeldnummer (you can check payment dates online using the last digit of this number).
• If your child is born on the last day of the month, you will still receive the full month’s Kindergeld.

How to Apply for Kindergeld: #

Step 1: Fill Out the Application Forms #

You need to complete:

• Antrag auf Kindergeld (KG1)
  (Child Benefit Application Form)
• Anlage Kind zum Hauptantrag Kindergeld (KG1-AnK)
  (Child Information Form)

You can find these forms online in English and other languages here.

Important: Both parents or legal guardians must sign the application.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents #

• For children born in Germany (within the last 6 months):
  • Only a copy of the birth certificate is required.
• For children born more than 6 months ago or outside Germany:
  • You also need a Haushaltsbescheinigung KG 3a (household confirmation form), which must be stamped by your local Bürgeramt.
• For EU/EEA citizens:
  • Submit an Anlage EU KG1-AnEU form. If employed, provide an employer’s certificate.
• If one parent works outside Germany:
  • Fill in Anlage Ausland KG51.
• For non-EU citizens:
  • Attach a copy of your residence permit.

Step 3: Submit the Application #

• By mail: Send your completed forms to your local Familienkasse (child benefit office). You can find the right office for your city here.
• Online: If you understand German, you can apply directly via the online portal.

Step 4: Wait for Approval #

• You will receive a written confirmation within a few weeks.
• If rejected, you have the right to appeal.

Step 5: Receive Payments #

• Kindergeld is paid monthly to your German bank account.
• Check your bank account to ensure payments are received on time.

Applying for Kindergeld for Additional Children: #

If you already receive Kindergeld for one child and have another child, you don’t need to start a new application. Instead, you must inform Familienkasse by submitting Form KG 45 and checking the box that says “Die Anzahl der in meinem Haushalt lebenden Kinder hat sich geändert.”

FAQ: Common Questions About Kindergeld: #

Can I Apply If I Am Not the Child’s Parent? #

Yes. If you are the stepparent, grandparent, or foster parent, you can apply if the child lives with you and you are their legal guardian.

Can I Apply Late and Receive Retroactive Payments? #

Yes, but only for up to 6 months before the application date. If you apply later than 6 months after your child is born, you might lose part of the payments.

Can Non-EU Citizens Receive Kindergeld? #

Yes. If you are from Algeria, Bosnia, Kosovo, Morocco, Montenegro, Serbia, Tunisia, or Turkey, you are eligible if you work in Germany or receive unemployment benefits. Citizens from other non-EU countries are eligible if they have a residence permit that allows employment. Refugees and asylum seekers may also qualify.

Is Kindergeld taxable? #

No. However, you must declare it in your yearly tax return using Anlage Kind.

Final Tips: #

• Apply as early as possible to avoid delays in receiving payments.
• Check that all required documents are correct and signed before submission.
• If moving within Germany, inform Familienkasse so your payments continue without issues.

If you disagree with a decision, you can appeal within one month of receiving the rejection letter.