Wohngeld vs Bürgergeld 2026 – Difference & Which Is Better

Bürgergeld – basic income support

Bürgergeld secures the subsistence minimum. It covers the standard rate for living expenses as well as the costs of accommodation and heating. Anyone who has no or only a low income and does not receive any priority benefits can apply for Bürgergeld. The amount depends on the benefit community and is paid by the Jobcentre.

Wohngeld – the rent subsidy

Wohngeld is a priority benefit over Bürgergeld. This means: if Wohngeld covers your housing needs, you are not entitled to Bürgergeld. Wohngeld is paid in addition to your own income to reduce rental costs.

When is it worth switching to Wohngeld?

Under certain circumstances, it may be worth switching from Bürgergeld to Wohngeld. This is the case if your income is just above the Bürgergeld threshold and Wohngeld plus your own income is higher than Bürgergeld. The switch is not always straightforward – advice from the Wohngeldstelle or a social welfare organisation is recommended.

Combining Wohngeld and Bürgergeld

In principle, Wohngeld and Bürgergeld are mutually exclusive. However, there are exceptions: anyone receiving Bürgergeld may, under certain circumstances, receive supplementary Wohngeld if their income exceeds the Bürgergeld requirement. This is the case when your own income plus Wohngeld exceeds the requirement.

Comparison table

A detailed side-by-side comparison of the two benefits can be found on our comparison page. The key differences at a glance: Wohngeld is a pure rent subsidy, Bürgergeld is comprehensive basic income support. Wohngeld is processed by the Amt für Soziales und Wohnen, Bürgergeld by the Jobcentre. Wohngeld requires your own income, Bürgergeld applies when income is lacking.

All information provided without guarantee. The statutory provisions of the Wohngeldgesetz (WoGG) are binding.