Elterngeld and Kindergeld in Germany – Differences and How to Combine Them

If you’re expecting a child or recently became a parent in Germany, you’ve probably heard about Elterngeld and Kindergeld. These two benefits are essential supports for families – but they serve different purposes. In this article, we’ll explain what they are, how they differ, and how you can combine them for maximum support. We’ll also offer insights for non-German citizens and those planning to move to Germany.

💡 On our website, you can take free quizzes to:

• Check your Elterngeld eligibility
• Estimate your Elterngeld amount
• Get step-by-step advice to fill out the application
• Receive a custom summary with all the details you need

What Is Elterngeld?

Elterngeld is a financial support from the German government for parents of newborns. It’s meant to replace lost income if you reduce or stop working after the birth. It helps you stay home and care for your baby without too much financial stress.

There are three types:

• Basic Elterngeld: Up to 12 months (or 14 months if both parents share it).
• ElterngeldPlus: Paid for double the time, but at half the monthly amount.
• Partnership Bonus: 2-4 extra months if both parents work part-time (24–32 hours/week).

You can combine these options to match your situation.

📝 Example:

📌 Use our free Elterngeld calculator to see how much you could get!

What Is Kindergeld?

Kindergeld is monthly financial support for every child, regardless of the parents‘ income. In 2025, it’s:

• €255 per child, per month (starting from January 2025)

You receive Kindergeld automatically every month until the child turns 18 (or up to 25 if in education).

Key Differences

Can You Combine Elterngeld and Kindergeld?

Yes! You can (and should) apply for both. They serve different purposes:

• Elterngeld helps replace your salary short-term.
• Kindergeld supports ongoing costs like diapers, clothes, and school supplies.

💡 Even if you didn’t work before birth, you can still receive minimum Elterngeld (usually €300/month).

For Non-German Citizens

If you’re not German, you may still qualify – but there are conditions.

✅ You’re eligible if you:

• Live in Germany
• Have a residence permit that allows you to work (e.g. §18, §28, §29, §25 Abs. 3–5 AufenthG)
• Are an EU/EEA citizen or from Switzerland

🔶 If you are abroad but planning to move to Germany, Elterngeld eligibility usually starts once you’ve moved and registered with the local office (Einwohnermeldeamt). You can’t apply before arrival.

📄 We can help you check your status and prepare with our free Elterngeld eligibility quiz.

Example: Family from Spain Moving to Berlin

Ana and Luis are moving from Spain to Berlin. Ana is pregnant and will stop working. After moving and registering their address:

• They can apply for Elterngeld (Ana as the main carer)
• They can also receive Kindergeld
• Their income in Spain does not count for the Elterngeld calculation, only income earned in Germany before birth

🔍 Tip: Apply as soon as possible after the baby is born — you can apply retroactively for up to 3 months.

Application Made Easy

Filling out the Elterngeld application can be confusing. But we’re here to help:

🛠️ Free tools on our website:

• Elterngeld eligibility quiz
• Estimated Elterngeld calculator
• Application assistant: You answer some questions, and we give you a document with everything you need to fill out your form
• Coming soon: Elterngeld advisor quiz for personalized planning

Final Tips & Checklist

✅ Things to do:

• Register your address (Anmeldung) in Germany
• Apply for a tax ID (Steuer-ID) for the baby
• Get proof of income for the 12 months before birth (or the full last calendar year if self-employed)
• Ask your employer for a Verdienstbescheinigung
• Submit Elterngeld application after the birth (not before!)

📝 Documents You’ll Likely Need:

• Birth certificate
• Passport/residence permit
• Proof of income
• Health insurance confirmation (if you received maternity benefits)
• Your tax ID and your baby’s