Direct Reduction of the Funding Amount
The consideration of income and assets of the applicant as well as their parents leads to a reduction in the funding amount of Bafög. If the credited amounts exceed the established exemption limits, the exceeding amount is proportionally distributed over the approval period and reduces the monthly Bafög benefit. The aim of this regulation is to focus state funding on applicants who are in need of financial support.
Consideration of Own Income
The applicant’s own income exceeding the monthly exemption amount of 520 euros is taken into account for the funding. The exceeding amount is divided across the months of the approval period. This reduces the monthly funding by the corresponding calculated amount. This applies to income from side jobs, internship compensation, and self-employment.
Consideration of Parental Income
The income of the parents is also considered for the Bafög funding, provided it exceeds the basic exemption limits. The exceeding amount is proportionally taken into account and reduces the possible funding amount. The higher the assessable income of the parents, the lower the funding will be. If the income significantly exceeds the credit limit, the entitlement to Bafög is lost.
Consideration of Assets
Assets of the applicant that exceed the exemption limits of 15,000 euros (up to 29 years) or 45,000 euros (from 30 years) are also considered for the funding. The exceeding amount is divided across the months of the approval period and reduces the monthly Bafög benefit. Assets below the exemption limits remain exempt from consideration and do not affect the funding.
Example of Calculation
Assuming an applicant has a monthly income of 700 euros from a side job and assets of 20,000 euros. After deducting the income exemption of 520 euros, 180 euros remain as assessable income. For the assets, the exemption limit is 15,000 euros, so 5,000 euros are credited. The 180 euros of income and the 5,000 euros of assets are proportionally distributed over the approval period, resulting in a monthly reduction of the Bafög funding.
Special Regulations for Maintenance Obligations
If the applicant has maintenance obligations towards spouses or children, the exemption amounts increase accordingly. This excludes a larger part of income and assets from consideration, reducing the impact on the funding amount. This regulation aims to ensure that applicants with family obligations are not disproportionately burdened.
Avoidance of Exceedances
Applicants can minimize the impact of consideration on the funding amount by ensuring that they do not exceed the exemption limits. Especially with side jobs and internship compensations, it is advisable to keep the monthly income below the exemption threshold. This ensures that the Bafög funding is fully maintained.
Impact on the Entitlement
If the assessable income or assets exceed a certain limit, the entitlement to Bafög can be completely lost. In such cases, the application is rejected, as it is assumed that the applicant or their parents are capable of financing the vocational training (Ausbildung) from their own resources. This limit varies depending on individual circumstances and the height of exemption limits.
Subsequent Changes
If income or assets change during the approval period, for example due to inheritances or a salary increase, this can subsequently influence the funding amount. The applicant is obliged to inform the Bafög office immediately about such changes. The office adjusts the funding accordingly to avoid overpayment or cuts.