In Germany, Kindergeld (child benefit) is a monthly financial support paid by the state to help families cover the costs of raising children. Here are the updated details for 2025:
As of January 2025, the Kindergeld amount has been increased to 255 euros per month for each child, regardless of how many children live in the family (settle-in-berlin.com).
To qualify for Kindergeld, you must meet the following conditions:
You have a legal residence in Germany
(including EU citizens and non-EU nationals with a valid residence permit).
The child lives in the same household as you.
The child is:
under 18 years of age, or
up to 25 years old if in education, university studies or vocational training, or
of any age if they have a disability that prevents them from supporting themselves.
You can apply for Kindergeld online via the official website of the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit):
Online application for Kindergeld
Typically, you will need:
Your tax identification number and that of your child (Steuerliche Identifikationsnummer)
The child’s birth certificate
Proof of residence (Meldebescheinigung)
Passport or residence permit (for non-German nationals) (versicherungsbuero-weiss.com)
The application must be submitted in writing; applications by phone or simple e-mail are not accepted.
You can also submit the application in person or by post at your local Familienkasse (Family Benefits Office) (versicherungsbuero-weiss.com).
After submitting your application, the processing time is usually between 3 weeks and 2 months.
If your application is approved, the Kindergeld will be transferred directly to your bank account.
Kindergeld is not subject to income tax.
You must inform the Familienkasse of any changes in your personal or family situation (e.g. moving house, marriage, changes in your child’s education status).
In 2025, the German government plans to introduce a system called Kindergrundsicherung (basic child security), which will combine several child-related benefits into a single payment. Final details have not yet been fully published (versicherungsbuero-weiss.com).
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, mistakes may occur or some details may be incomplete or not yet fully confirmed. Please treat the information in this article as an initial point of reference and always consult the competent authorities for binding and up-to-date information.
