What are the requirements for receiving child benefit?
July 11, 2023 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Andreas Köhler
Dear Lawyer,
My name is Xenia Winterstein and I have a question regarding the granting of child benefits. My situation is as follows: I am a single mother of two children and currently receive social benefits. I have heard that under certain conditions it is possible to apply for child benefits. Now I wonder if I meet these conditions and if I am entitled to child benefits.
My concerns are that I am just getting by with my social benefits and additional child benefits would mean a great financial relief for me. However, I am unsure if my current situation meets the requirements to receive child benefits. That is why I am reaching out to you with the question of what specific conditions apply for the granting of child benefits and if I meet them.
I hope you can provide me with clarity and inform me about possible solutions if I do indeed qualify for child benefits. Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Xenia Winterstein
Dear Ms. Winterstein,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the granting of child benefit. As a single mother of two children currently receiving social benefits, it is understandable that you are looking for additional financial support options. Child benefit can indeed be an important financial relief in your case.
In Germany, parents are generally entitled to child benefit if they maintain one or more children. It does not matter whether the parents are employed or receiving social benefits. What matters is that the parents care for the child or children and they live in the household. As a single mother in your case, you generally meet the requirements for receiving child benefit.
The exact amount of child benefit depends on the number of children. Currently, the child benefit is 204 euros per month for the first and second child, 210 euros for the third child, and 235 euros for each additional child. Child benefit is usually paid by the family office of the Federal Employment Agency.
To apply for child benefit, you need to submit an informal written application. You can download this form from your local family office or online on the family office's website. In the application, you need to provide information about yourself and your children, as well as provide any necessary evidence of childcare and your marital status.
It is important to note that child benefit is generally paid until the child reaches the age of 18. Under certain conditions, the payment of child benefit can be extended beyond the age of 18, for example during the child's education or studies.
I hope this information has been helpful to you and has provided clarity on your situation. If you have further questions or need assistance with the application process, I am happy to help.
Best regards,
Andreas Köhler
Attorney specializing in social law
