The German government plans to simplify child benefit (Kindergeld) payments by making them automatic, eliminating the need for parents to submit applications. The aim is to reduce bureaucratic burdens on families, especially after childbirth.
In 2025, the Family Benefits Office distributed around €55 billion to 17.57 million children. All tax-paying parents in Germany are entitled to the benefit for children under 18, with special rules for those still in education or vocational training. The current monthly amount is €259 per child.
Currently, parents must register their newborn at the civil registry office (Standesamt) and then apply to the Family Benefits Office, either on paper or via the “Elster” tax portal. Critics argue this process is unnecessarily complicated.
Under the new system, the civil registry will notify the Federal Central Tax Office, which will then inform the Family Benefits Office directly. Bank account details of at least one parent must be available. Payments will default to the mother’s account, though parents can request changes.
The proposal is still under review and is expected to be introduced gradually in 2027: from March for parents already receiving child benefit for older children, and from November also for first-borns if conditions are met. In complex cases – such as families abroad or children over 18 in education – applications will still be required.
Sources – Agencies
