Wohngeld Income Limits – What Counts as Income?
Whether and how much Wohngeld you receive depends on the total income of your household. There is no single income limit figure – it depends on household size, rent level and rent. Here you can find out what counts as income.
This counts as income
- Gross wages less income-related expenses and taxes
- Pensions and retirement pay
- Child benefit
- Maintenance payments
- Unemployment benefit, sickness benefit and other wage replacement benefits
- Income from letting, capital and self-employment
How the income limits work
The income limits rise with household size and rent level: larger households in cities with a higher rent market – Essen is in rent level IV – have higher limits.
Below the minimum income there is no Wohngeld; above the income limit the entitlement ceases. In between: the lower the income, the higher the subsidy.
Frequently asked questions about income
Does child benefit count towards Wohngeld income?
Yes, child benefit is counted as income – as are other regular incomes of the household members.
Is the pension fully counted?
Pensions count as income. The exact calculation follows the rules of the Housing Benefit Act during the application process.
Does the income of all household members count?
Yes – the total income of all household members is decisive, including that of your partner and children.