Wohngeld Income Limits NRW 2026 | Duisburg – Who Is Eligible?
The income limits determine whether you are entitled to Wohngeld. They depend on household size, the Mietstufe and the actual rent. We explain the current values for Duisburg.
How income limits are calculated
The Wohngeldgesetz determines the income level at which the Wohngeld entitlement ceases. The limit is not rigid but rises with the rent and household size. In simple terms: the more people in the household and the higher the rent, the higher the income limit.
Income limits for Duisburg (Mietstufe IV)
The following guideline values apply for Duisburg (Mietstufe IV) with an average rent. Single-person household: approx. 1,300 euros gross income. Two-person household: approx. 1,900 euros. Three-person household: approx. 2,500 euros. Four-person household: approx. 3,200 euros. Five-person household: approx. 3,800 euros. These values increase accordingly with higher rent.
What counts as income?
Income includes all earnings in cash or monetary value: wages, pensions, sick pay, unemployment benefit I, parental allowance (partially), maintenance payments, income from rental or capital assets. Child benefit, the basic pension supplement, certain allowances for severely disabled persons and care allowance are not counted.
Deductions from income
You may deduct certain amounts from your gross income: income-related expenses (at least 6% of gross income), social security contributions, taxes, health and long-term care insurance contributions as well as maintenance payments to separated spouses or children. These deductions reduce the income relevant for the Wohngeld calculation.
Income limits for residential property
Different calculation bases apply for owner-occupied residential property. Instead of rent, the monthly financial burden (interest, repayment, operating costs) is used. The income limits are essentially the same as for the rent subsidy.
Current changes 2025/2026
The income limits were raised as part of the Wohngeld reform. A further adjustment to income trends is planned for 2026. Regularly check whether the reform has changed your eligibility requirements.
All information provided without guarantee. The statutory provisions of the Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) are binding.