The family benefits office reclaims child benefit? How to fight back
The family benefits office demands back child benefit already paid, sometimes for several months at once? Before you pay: check the notice. Against a child benefit reclaim you can file an objection within one month.
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Create an objection →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Check the deadline and reason
Why is it being reclaimed and for which period? The 1-month objection deadline runs from notification.
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2. File the objection
File the objection in writing; you can submit the reasoning later. What matters is meeting the deadline.
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3. Collect proof
Proof of the child's training or studies, registration certificates or income statements of the child can refute the claim.
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4. If necessary, deferral or installments
If the reclaim is justified but too high at once, you can apply for deferral or installment payment.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have for the objection?
One month from notification of the family benefits office's notice (§ 355 AO). The objection must arrive on time; you can submit the reasoning later.
Do I have to pay immediately?
With the objection you can at the same time apply for a suspension of enforcement, so that you do not have to pay immediately while it is being reviewed. If the claim is justified in the end, deferral or installment payment is possible.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.