Child benefit and parental allowance

Kindergeld (monthly child benefit) and Elterngeld (parental allowance) — who qualifies, how much, and how to apply.

Key points to understand

Kindergeld: monthly payment per child (apply at Familienkasse)

Kindergeld: monthly payment per child (apply at Familienkasse). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Elterngeld: income-based support during parental leave

Elterngeld: income-based support during parental leave. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Kinderzuschlag for lower-income working families

Kinderzuschlag for lower-income working families. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.