Wohngeld for Families & Single Parents in Cologne

How Does Family Makeup Affect Wohngeld?

The Wohngeld calculation takes the number of household members into account. Children increase the number of persons to be considered and thus the maximum eligible rent. At the same time, the income limit increases with each child.

For families, child benefit and any child supplement (Kinderzuschlag) are also included in the income calculation. Child benefit counts as the child's income and is assessed accordingly.

Wohngeld with Children – the Advantages

For each child living in the household, you benefit from several advantages in the Wohngeld calculation:

• The eligible maximum rent increases with each child – more children mean a higher recognised rent.
• Child benefit is assessed as income but simultaneously increases the income limit.
• Maintenance payments for children are deducted from the paying parent's income (allowance).

Special Provisions for Single Parents

Single parents receive an additional allowance in the Wohngeld calculation. This improves the chances of receiving Wohngeld and increases the payment amount.

The allowance for single parents applies to each child under 12 years living in the household. If several children under 12 live in the household, the allowance is granted for each child.

Wohngeld and Child Supplement (Kinderzuschlag / KiZ)

In addition to Wohngeld, there is the Kinderzuschlag (child supplement) for families with low incomes. The child supplement is an independent benefit for families whose income is sufficient for their own living expenses but not for the children's.

Wohngeld and child supplement can be combined under certain conditions. This is particularly interesting for families who are just above the income limit for Bürgergeld but whose income is still not sufficient for full living costs.

Income Calculation for Families

For families, various types of income are included in the Wohngeld calculation. In addition to parents' earned income, child benefit, maintenance payments and any maintenance advance are also taken into account.

At the same time, higher allowances apply to families. Part of the income is not assessed, which increases the chance of Wohngeld. Particularly relevant: the single-parent allowance and child allowances.

Wohngeld for Families in Cologne

In Cologne with its high Mietstufe V, families benefit particularly strongly from Wohngeld. The recognised maximum rents are higher in Cologne than in many other cities, which represents a significant advantage, especially for larger families with correspondingly higher housing costs.