Child benefit and other family benefits

In short: Child benefit is a state benefit in Germany that helps parents with the costs of raising children. It is paid regardless of the parents’ income.

In more detail: Child benefit is usually paid until the 18th birthday, often up to 25 during training or study.

In detail

• Applying: At the family benefits office, usually shortly after the child’s birth.
• Child supplement: Additional benefit for low-income families that are just above the citizen’s income level.
• Child tax allowance: Alternative to child benefit in the tax return; the tax office automatically chooses the more favourable option.
• Childcare allowance and grants: Depending on the federal state, there are further funding options, for example for daycare places.
• Payment: Made monthly, often directly to one parent’s account.
• Adult children: Entitlement can continue during training, study or waiting for a training place.
• Combination: Can be combined with parental allowance and advance maintenance payments (unterhaltspflicht-grundlagen).