Kindergeld 2024/2025: German Child Benefit and Required Document Translations

Working or running a business in Germany is a common scenario for many international families. One of the important benefits you can apply for is the German child benefit, called Kindergeld. It's also worth knowing about the supplement for low-income families – Kinderzuschlag. What are the current conditions for granting these benefits, what documents are needed, and when will certified translation of these documents be necessary?

What is Kindergeld and Kinderzuschlag?

Kindergeld is the basic German child benefit paid for children. It is granted to parents or legal guardians for each child, generally until the child reaches 18 years of age. This period can be extended:

• Until age 21, if the child is not working and is registered as a job seeker.
• Until age 25, if the child continues education (e.g., university studies, vocational training).

Kinderzuschlag (KiZ) is an additional benefit for low-income families who receive Kindergeld but whose financial resources barely cover the family's needs. It aims to prevent child poverty.

Current benefit amounts (Kindergeld and Kinderzuschlag)

Important information about rates: The amounts below reflect the situation at the beginning of 2024. Benefit rates may change. Always verify current amounts on official German authority websites, such as Familienkasse.

Kindergeld

Since January 1, 2023, there has been a significant change – the Kindergeld rate has been standardized and amounts to 250 euros per month for each child, regardless of the number of children in the family. Previously, rates were differentiated.

Kinderzuschlag

The maximum amount of Kinderzuschlag also changes. At the beginning of 2024, it could amount to up to 250 euros per month per child (this amount is regularly adjusted, e.g., it increased from January 1, 2024). The exact amount of Kinderzuschlag is individually calculated based on family income and assets as well as living costs. To receive it, parents must meet specific income criteria (minimum gross income for a couple is usually 900 euros, for a single parent 600 euros, while income cannot be too high to qualify for assistance).

It's also worth remembering the possibility of applying for Kindergeld retroactively, usually up to 6 months from the date of application (previously this period was longer, so always check current regulations).

Who can apply for Kindergeld and under what conditions?

The right to German child benefit Kindergeld is available to people who meet specific conditions regarding residence and employment. Generally, those who can apply for Kindergeld include:

• Persons with unlimited tax liability in Germany (e.g., registered and working in Germany).
• EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens who work in Germany or conduct business there, even if their family lives in another member country.
• Other persons under specific conditions (e.g., posted workers).

Key is having a place of residence or permanent residence in Germany, or being covered by the German social security system due to employment or business activity.

Can you receive Kindergeld for children living abroad?

Yes, this is possible. If one parent legally works and is subject to tax obligations in Germany, while the other parent with children lives in another country, the family can apply for Kindergeld. However, EU regulations on coordination of social security systems apply here.

It's important that if the family already receives family benefits in another country (e.g., child benefit), Germany may pay the so-called differential supplement (Teilkindergeld), i.e., the difference between the amount of German Kindergeld and the amount of benefits received in the other country. You cannot receive full amounts of the same type of benefits in two countries simultaneously.

How and where to apply for Kindergeld? (Familienkasse)

The institution responsible for granting and paying Kindergeld and Kinderzuschlag in Germany is Familienkasse (Family Benefits Office), which is part of the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency). The application should be submitted to the appropriate Familienkasse branch assigned to your place of residence or work in Germany.

Application forms (Antrag auf Kindergeld) and necessary attachments are available on Familienkasse websites. They can also be obtained directly at the office.

What documents are needed for Kindergeld application?

The list of required documents may vary depending on the applicant's individual situation, but Familienkasse may typically require:

• Completed and signed Kindergeld application (Antrag auf Kindergeld).
• European birth certificate of the child (on multilingual form) or abbreviated/full birth certificate of the child along with its certified translation into German.
• European marriage certificate (if applicable) or marriage certificate along with certified translation.
• Registration certificate in Germany (Anmeldebescheinigung).
• Certificate from German employer (Arbeitgeberbescheinigung) or documents confirming business activity in Germany.
• Copies of identity documents (ID card or passport) of the applicant and the other parent.
• Education certificates for adult children continuing education (e.g., school certificate translation or university certificate).
• Declarations about family situation and possible receipt of benefits in other countries.
• Tax identification number (Steueridentifikationsnummer) of the applicant and child.

Tip: It's always worth checking the current list of required documents on the Familienkasse website or contacting the office, as requirements may change.

When is certified translation of Kindergeld documents necessary?

As mentioned above, German authorities (including Familienkasse) require that documents prepared in a foreign language (e.g., birth certificates, certificates from other countries) be submitted along with their certified translation into German. The translation must be performed by a sworn translator authorized to perform such translations (in Germany or a translator from another EU country whose qualifications are recognized).

This applies primarily to documents such as:

• Children's birth certificates (if not on multilingual form).
• Marriage certificates (if not on multilingual form).
• Education certificates from schools or universities.
• Court judgments (e.g., regarding child custody).
• Other documents confirming family or professional situation, if they are in a foreign language.

How to quickly order document translation for Kindergeld online?

Handling formalities related to Kindergeld can be time-consuming, so it's worth simplifying the process where possible. Ordering certified translations online is an excellent way to save time and often money too.

On the Sworny.com platform, you can quickly and securely order certified translation of all documents needed for Kindergeld application. Our collaborating certified German translators are experienced specialists who will ensure accurate and reliable translation that meets German authority requirements.

1. Send scans or photos of your documents through our website.
2. Receive non-binding quotes from several translators.
3. Choose the best offer and pay for the order.
4. Receive the finished certified translation (electronically with qualified signature or in paper version).