What is Wohngeld? Meaning, Amount & Eligibility 2026
Wohngeld is a state subsidy towards housing costs. It is designed to enable low-income households to afford adequate housing. Unlike Bürgergeld, Wohngeld is not a social benefit that covers the entire cost of living – it is intended specifically for housing costs.
Wohngeld – the rent subsidy from the state
Wohngeld is paid as a subsidy towards rent (Mietzuschuss) or towards the costs of owner-occupied residential property (Lastenzuschuss). It is governed by the Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) and is processed by the Wohngeldstellen of towns and municipalities. In Duisburg, the Amt für Soziales und Wohnen is your point of contact.
Who receives Wohngeld?
In principle, all low-income households can apply for Wohngeld – whether you are employed, receiving a pension or studying. Three factors are decisive: the number of household members, total income and the amount of rent or financial burden. Recipients of Bürgergeld may also receive Wohngeld under certain conditions if the Bürgergeld is not sufficient.
Wohngeld vs Bürgergeld – the difference
Bürgergeld (formerly Hartz IV) covers the entire cost of living – i.e. both accommodation costs and daily needs. Wohngeld, on the other hand, is a pure rent subsidy. If you receive Bürgergeld, the Jobcentre generally covers your accommodation costs. Wohngeld comes into play when your income is too high for Bürgergeld but not sufficient to cover the rent.
How is Wohngeld calculated?
The Wohngeld entitlement is calculated using a complex formula set out in the Wohngeldgesetz. In simple terms: the lower your income and the higher your housing costs, the higher the Wohngeld. The Mietstufe of your town plays an important role here. Duisburg is in Mietstufe IV, which represents a medium rent level in a nationwide comparison.
The Mietstufen – what does Mietstufe IV mean?
Germany is divided into seven Mietstufen. The Mietstufe reflects the regional rent level. Mietstufe I represents the lowest, Mietstufe VII the highest rent level. Duisburg belongs to Mietstufe IV. This means that the maximum amounts for eligible rent are above the national average of the lower tiers but below those of metropolitan areas such as Munich (Stufe VII).
Wohngeld Reform 2025 and 2026
Wohngeld was reformed on 1 January 2025. The reform brought higher Wohngeld amounts, an adjustment of income limits and a permanent heating cost component. Further adjustments are planned for 2026 to account for inflation-driven increases in rental costs. Find out about the current changes on our Wohngeld reform page.
All information provided without guarantee. The statutory provisions of the Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) are binding.