Can you hold a Part-Time Job while receiving Elterngeld in Germany? Yes, but there are important rules to follow. In this article, we explain what’s allowed, how your income affects your payments, and what options might be best for you. We also share practical examples, tips for foreigners, and free tools to help you make smart decisions.
💡 Use our website’s free tools to:
- Check your Elterngeld eligibility
- Estimate your Elterngeld amount
What Is a Minijob?
A Minijob is a small job in Germany that pays up to €556/month (as of 2025). You don’t pay full taxes or social insurance. Many parents choose this type of job during or after parental leave because it’s flexible and does not significantly reduce other benefits.
Can I Keep My Minijob While Getting Elterngeld?
✅ Yes, you can!
You are allowed to work up to 32 hours per week while receiving Elterngeld. This includes Minijobs, part-time, or freelance work.
🔹 If you had a Minijob before the baby, your Elterngeld is based on that income.
🔹 If you start a Minijob after the baby is born, your earnings will reduce your Elterngeld – but only partly.
How Does a Minijob Affect Elterngeld?
Your Elterngeld replaces a portion of your lost net income. If you earn money while receiving Elterngeld (like through a Minijob), that income is deducted from your Elterngeld – but not 1:1. It’s a bit more complex.
🧮 Example: Lisa worked full-time and earned €2,000/month before birth. After her baby is born, she starts a Minijob and earns €450/month.
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Previous net income | €2,000 |
| Income during Elterngeld | €450 |
| Lost income | €1,550 |
| Elterngeld (approx. 65%) | €1,007.50 |
So she still gets Elterngeld – just a bit less because she has some income now.
🎯 Try our free Elterngeld amount calculator quiz to estimate how your Minijob might affect your payment.
Is ElterngeldPlus Better With a Minijob?
Often, yes!
ElterngeldPlus is designed for people working part-time, like in a Minijob. You get:
- Half the monthly amount of Basic Elterngeld
- Double the time (e.g., 20 months instead of 10)
- Bonus months if both parents work part-time (Partnerschaftsbonus)
💡 If you want to stretch your Elterngeld and work a little on the side, ElterngeldPlus is usually the better choice.
What About Foreign Parents or Families Abroad?
✅ You can receive Elterngeld even if you are not a German citizen, as long as you meet these conditions:
- You live in Germany with your child
- You have a valid residence permit that allows work
- You have a Minijob or employment in Germany
🌍 If you are abroad but planning to move to Germany:
You can apply for Elterngeld only after moving and registering in Germany. Minijob income abroad does not count.
📌 Tip: Use our free eligibility quiz to check your status before the move!
What Do I Need to Report?
If you get a Minijob after applying for Elterngeld, you must tell the Elterngeldstelle right away. You’ll need to provide:
- Your employment contract
- Monthly pay stubs
- An updated schedule if your hours change
Your Elterngeld might be adjusted – but it’s better to report it than risk paying money back later!
Final Tips
- ✅ Minijob income lowers Elterngeld, but doesn’t block it
- ✅ Work up to 32 hours/week
- ✅ ElterngeldPlus is often the better option for Minijobbers
- ✅ Keep all pay slips and notify of changes quickly
- ✅ Plan your income and Elterngeld months carefully – use our free tools!
Handy Checklist: Elterngeld + Minijob
✅ Have a Minijob? Choose ElterngeldPlus
✅ Keep hours under 32/week
✅ Report all job income to Elterngeldstelle
✅ Save every payslip and contract
✅ Use our Elterngeld calculator to test the best mix
✅ Don’t forget your tax return (Elterngeld affects tax rate!)
