Home in Essen
You live in Essen and occupy the home yourself as your main residence.
Wohngeld Eligibility in Essen – Who Is Entitled
Tenants in Essen whose household income is below the income limits of the Housing Benefit Act – and who do not receive priority benefits such as Bürgergeld – are entitled to Wohngeld. These conditions apply to the rent subsidy.
The requirements at a glance
Tenant
You rent the home – the subsidy towards rent is called rent subsidy (Mietzuschuss).
Income within the limits
Your household income is below the income limits – and at the same time reaches the minimum income.
No priority benefits
You do not receive Bürgergeld or basic income support – your housing costs are already covered there.
Application to the Wohngeldstelle
Wohngeld is only paid on application – to the Wohngeldstelle of the City of Essen.
The minimum income
Wohngeld requires a minimum income that varies by household size and rent level. Households without sufficient income receive basic income support benefits instead – housing costs are also covered there.
Everything about the eligibility requirements
Who gets Wohngeld?
Eligible groups, exclusion criteria and typical examples – in a direct comparison.
Check eligibility →Income limits
What counts as income – from wages to pensions to child benefit – and how the limits work.
Understand income →Wohngeld or Bürgergeld
Two benefits, one goal: affordable housing. What the difference is and which fits you.
See the differences →Wohngeld for pensioners
Receive Wohngeld on a small pension – here is how pensioners check their eligibility.
Learn more →Frequently asked questions about Wohngeld eligibility
Who is entitled to Wohngeld in Essen?
Tenants whose household income is below the income limits of the Housing Benefit Act and who do not receive priority benefits such as Bürgergeld or basic income support.
Who is excluded from Wohngeld?
Among others, recipients of Bürgergeld or basic income support as well as students who receive BAföG or are in principle entitled to it do not receive Wohngeld.
What is the minimum income?
The minimum income is the income level a household must reach to receive Wohngeld. It depends on household size and rent level.
Does child benefit count as income?
Yes – child benefit is considered as income for Wohngeld. The same applies to other regular income such as pensions or maintenance.
Can students get Wohngeld?
Students who receive BAföG or are in principle entitled to it generally do not receive Wohngeld.