Kindergeld: The Monthly Child Benefit Every Parent Should Know About

Kindergeld is perhaps the most straightforward of all child-related benefits in Germany. It is a monthly payment made to parents for every child in the household, regardless of income, and it continues for years.

How Much Is Kindergeld?

As of 2025, Kindergeld is 250 euros per month per child. This applies from the month of birth and continues until the child turns 18 years old. In certain circumstances, such as if the child is in education or training, it can be extended until the age of 25.

Who Can Apply?

Any parent who is a resident in Germany and pays taxes here is generally entitled to Kindergeld. As an immigrant, as long as you hold a valid residence permit and are registered in Germany, you are eligible.

What About Students?

Student parents are fully entitled to Kindergeld, just like employed parents. Being a student does not disqualify you in any way. In fact, if you are a student receiving BAföG, Kindergeld is paid on top of it and does not reduce your BAföG amount. Furthermore, if your child later pursues higher education, you as a parent may continue receiving Kindergeld for them until they turn 25, as long as they remain enrolled in a recognized educational program.

How to Apply

Kindergeld is administered by the Familienkasse, which operates under the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). You can apply online, by post, or in person at your local Familienkasse office. You will need:

• Your child's birth certificate

• Your own identification and residence documents

• Your tax identification number (Steuer-ID)

• Your bank account details

When to Apply

You can apply immediately after birth and payments are made retroactively from the birth month. However, there is a six-month retroactive limit, so do not delay too long.