Requirements for Receiving Child Benefit While Searching for Training (Ausbildung)
Child benefit is generally granted for children up to the age of 18. For adolescents who are seeking a training position, the entitlement can be extended up to the age of 25. The prerequisite is that the young person is seriously and actively looking for a training opportunity. This must be regularly proven by suitable evidence, such as applications, rejection letters, or registration with the Employment Agency.
Proof Obligations to the Family Benefits Office
To continue receiving child benefit during the search for a training place, the young person must regularly provide the Family Benefits Office with evidence of their efforts. This includes, for example, cover letters, invitations to interviews, or certificates of unemployment registration with the Employment Agency. If these proofs are missing, the Family Benefits Office may suspend payments or reclaim child benefit already paid.
Duration of Child Benefit Payments During the Search
The entitlement to child benefit during the search for training (Ausbildung) exists up to a maximum of the 25th birthday. This regulation applies if no initial vocational training (Berufsausbildung) or first degree has been completed. If initial training has already been completed, child benefit can only be granted in special cases, such as during a further course of study or retraining, provided it is necessary for career entry.
Registration with the Employment Agency
An important prerequisite for receiving child benefit during the search for a training position is registering with the Employment Agency as seeking training (Ausbildung). This registration serves as proof that the young person is actively pursuing a training opportunity. Additionally, the agency provides support with placement services and offers counseling to enhance the chances of securing a training place.
Special Regulations in Case of Illness or Voluntary Service
If the young person becomes ill during the search for a training position or engages in voluntary service, the entitlement to child benefit may change. In the case of prolonged illness, a medical certificate must be submitted to the Family Benefits Office to continue receiving child benefit. During voluntary service, such as a Voluntary Social Year (FSJ) or Federal Volunteer Service (BFD), the entitlement to child benefit remains, as it is considered a form of career orientation.
Transition Periods Between School Graduation and Training (Ausbildung)
Between school graduation and the commencement of training (Ausbildung), there may be a transition period during which child benefit can also be received. However, this period may not exceed four months. If the duration is longer, proof of active search for a training position must be provided to maintain the entitlement to child benefit. Otherwise, the entitlement ends after the four-month period.
Amount of Child Benefit During the Training (Ausbildung) Search
The amount of child benefit remains unchanged during the search for a training place. It currently amounts to 250 euros per month for the first and second child, 250 euros for the third child, and from the fourth child onward, 250 euros. These amounts can change due to legal adjustments, so the current rates should be checked regularly. Payments are made monthly by the Family Benefits Office of the Employment Agency.
Application and Responsibility of the Family Benefits Office
The application for child benefit is submitted through the Family Benefits Office, which is affiliated with the Employment Agency. The necessary documents must be provided here, including proof of the search for a training place and, if applicable, registration with the Employment Agency. For questions or uncertainties, parents and young people can contact the responsible Family Benefits Office directly.