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Emergency

Child supplement: amount, requirements, and calculation

The child supplement supports families with a small income who can cover their own needs but not those of their children. It is an alternative to Bürgergeld and is tied to income limits. With the supplement, further benefits often arise.

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Your chances of getting your money back

The child supplement is received by parents with their own income above a minimum limit whose income, however, does not suffice for the children's needs (§ 6a BKGG). The amount is based on income, housing costs, and the number of children.
With the child supplement, daycare fees often no longer apply and there are entitlements to benefits for education and participation. Applying is therefore worthwhile even when uncertain about the exact amount.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the requirements

    Clarify whether your income is above the minimum but below the maximum limit.

  2. 2

    2. Submit the application

    Submit the application to the family benefits office, often possible online.

  3. 3

    3. Enclose proof

    Enclose proof of income and housing costs.

  4. 4

    4. Use additional benefits

    With the notice, apply for education-and-participation benefits and fee exemptions.

How to spot the scam

  • The application is not submitted at all because of uncertainty.
  • Housing costs are not stated in the calculation.
  • Additional benefits are not used.

Frequently asked questions

Who is entitled to the child supplement?

Parents who cover their own needs with their income but not those of their children, and whose income is above a minimum limit but below the maximum limit (§ 6a BKGG). The receipt of child benefit for the child is also a requirement.

How high is the child supplement?

That depends on income, housing costs, and the number of children and is calculated individually; there is a maximum amount per child. Because of the complex calculation, applying is worthwhile even if you cannot estimate the exact amount in advance.

What additional advantages do I have?

With the child supplement, the daycare fee usually no longer applies and you are entitled to benefits for education and participation, for example for school supplies, lunch, or club fees. These advantages significantly increase the actual value of the supplement.

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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.