Child benefit: How is it calculated and who is entitled to it?
January 15, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Albrecht Dietrich
Dear Social Law Attorney,
I am reaching out to you because I have some questions regarding child benefits. My name is Dirk Ullmann and I have two children aged 8 and 10. I have been receiving child benefits for my children so far, but there have been some changes in my professional situation that have left me uncertain.
My wife recently became unemployed and I, as the sole earner, am currently earning less as I work part-time to have more time for the children. This has worsened our financial situation and we are unsure if we still qualify for child benefits.
I would like to know how child benefits are calculated and if the amount changes when our income situation changes. Additionally, it would be helpful to know if there are any other requirements to qualify for child benefits.
I am worried that we may lose our child benefits and I would like to explore all options and solutions to ensure that my children continue to receive financial support.
Could you please explain how child benefits are calculated, who is eligible, and if our current status affects our eligibility? Are there any alternative forms of support if we were to lose child benefits?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Dirk Ullmann
Dear Mr. Ullmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding child benefit. I understand your concerns and will be happy to provide you with all the information you need.
Child benefit in Germany is generally paid for children up to the age of 18. For children over 18, child benefit can also be applied for under certain conditions. The amount of child benefit depends on the number of children and their age. Currently, child benefit is €219 per month for the first and second child, €225 for the third child, and €250 for the fourth child and onwards.
The calculation of child benefit is independent of the parents' income. This means that you are still entitled to child benefit even if your financial situation has changed. It does not matter if you are the sole earner or if your wife is unemployed. As long as your children are under 18 years old, you continue to be eligible for child benefit.
However, there is an income limit that should be considered. If the parents' income exceeds this limit, it may result in a reduction or loss of child benefit. The exact amounts and limits may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is advisable to contact the family benefits office or a social law attorney to get precise information on this matter.
If you do lose child benefit, there may be other forms of support available to you. For example, you could apply for housing benefit or other social benefits to improve your financial situation.
I hope this information has been helpful to you. Please do not hesitate to contact me again if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
Albrecht Dietrich
