Wohngeld Duisburg
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Wohngeld Duisburg

Housing Benefit FAQ

We answer your questions about Housing Benefit Plus in Duisburg. Understandable, precise, and action-oriented.

FAQ: Everything Important at a Glance

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about housing benefit in Duisburg. From the initial application and calculation to changes during ongoing receipt – we guide you through the process.

General Questions

What is housing benefit exactly?

Housing benefit is a state subsidy for your housing costs. It is not charity, but a legal entitlement for households whose income is not sufficient to bear the rent or the costs of the own home alone. There are two forms: the rent subsidy (for tenants) and the load allowance (for owners).

What is the difference to Citizen's Allowance?

Citizen's Allowance is a comprehensive aid for living, while housing benefit is only a subsidy for housing. Housing benefit is priority: anyone who can cover their living expenses themselves and only needs help with rent must apply for housing benefit. Often the combination of housing benefit and child supplement is more financially attractive.

Learn more about the comparison »

Eligibility & Requirements

As a pensioner, am I entitled to housing benefit?

Yes, very many pensioners in Duisburg are entitled, especially since the Housing Benefit Plus reform. Often the pension is above the level of basic security but below the housing benefit limit. In addition, there are special allowances for long-term pension insurance periods.

Info for pensioners »

Can students and apprentices get housing benefit?

Generally yes, but there are exceptions. Those who are entitled to BAföG or BAB are usually excluded from housing benefit. However, housing benefit is an option if you live with children, are in a second degree, or no longer have an entitlement to BAföG.

Can I own a car and still receive housing benefit?

Yes, an appropriate car per employable household member is usually not counted as assets for housing benefit. Housing benefit is much more generous here than Citizen's Allowance.

Is my salary from a minijob counted?

Yes, income from a minijob counts towards the total household income. However, there are allowances that reduce the countable amount.

Application & Process

What is the best way to apply in Duisburg?

You can submit the application in writing to the Office for Social Affairs and Housing of the City of Duisburg. It is faster and easier via our guided online service, which leads you step-by-step through the necessary information and ensures that your application is complete.

What documents do I need for the application?

You usually need your rental agreement, current proof of income (wage certificates, pension notice), proof of household members, and your ID card. For owner-occupied property, proof of interest and repayment as well as property tax are required.

What do I do if my application was rejected?

You can appeal against a rejection notice within one month. Check the reasons carefully: often documents are missing or income was calculated incorrectly. We recommend seeking professional advice in case of doubt.

Calculation & Amount

How much housing benefit do I get monthly?

This varies individually and depends on the number of household members, the total income, and the amount of rent. In Duisburg (rent level III), subsidies of several hundred euros are possible through the Housing Benefit Plus reform, in individual cases up to 800 euros.

* Maximum amount depends on household size, income, and rent. As of March 30, 2026.

What is the heating cost component in Housing Benefit Plus?

Since 2023, there has been a flat-rate supplement for heating costs that is directly included in the housing benefit. It is approx. €1.20 per square meter (depending on household size) and helps to cushion the increased energy costs.

Details on Housing Benefit Plus »

Payment & Deadlines

When is the housing benefit paid out?

Housing benefit is paid monthly in advance. This means the money for the current month should be in your account on the first working day. The first payment after approval is often a back payment for the months since the application was submitted.

View payout dates »

How long is housing benefit approved for?

Usually, housing benefit is approved for 12 months. After that, the payment ends automatically. You should submit a follow-up application about two months before the end of the period so that the payment continues seamlessly.

Info on duration & deadlines »

Changes & Notifications

Do I have to report rent increases?

Yes, absolutely! If your rent increases by more than 15%, this can lead to a higher housing benefit claim. In this case, you should submit a change application to receive the higher subsidy.

What happens if I move?

A move must be reported to the Duisburg housing benefit office immediately. Since housing benefit is tied to the respective apartment, the approval for the old apartment ends and you must submit a new application (change application) for the new apartment.

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Thousands of households in Duisburg are missing out on this support. Check today if you are also eligible.

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