Uniform Child Benefit Rate from 2025
Since the year 2025, a uniform child benefit rate of €250 per month applies in Germany for each child. This standardization replaces the previous tiered system, where the amount of child benefit varied depending on the number of children. The goal of this reform is to allow easier calculations and provide equal support for all families, regardless of the number of children.
Previous Child Benefit Tiers
Before 2025, the child benefit amount was tiered and amounted to:
- For the first and second child: €219 per month
- For the third child: €225 per month
- For the fourth and each additional child: €250 per month
The standardization of child benefit to €250 per child abolished this tiered system.
Duration of Child Benefit Payments
Child benefit is generally paid until the child reaches the age of 18. Under certain conditions, such as ongoing vocational training (Ausbildung), the entitlement can be extended until the age of 25. In exceptional cases, such as voluntary service, further extensions are possible.
Child Benefit Amounts and Tax Benefits
Child benefit is granted as a monthly payment; alternatively, the child allowance can be considered as part of the income tax assessment. The tax office automatically checks whether child benefit or the allowance is financially more advantageous for parents (the so-called benefit check). In most cases, child benefit is the more favorable option for parents with low to middle income.
Payment of Child Benefit Amounts
Child benefit is paid monthly by the family benefits office. The timing of the payment depends on the last digit of the child benefit number:
- Last digit 0–1: Payment at the beginning of the month
- Last digit 2–3: Payment in the first week of the month
- Last digit 4–5: Payment in the second week of the month
- Last digit 6–7: Payment in the third week of the month
- Last digit 8–9: Payment at the end of the month
No More Tiering Based on the Number of Children
With the introduction of the uniform child benefit rate, the previous tiering based on the number of children has been eliminated. Families now receive the same monthly amount of €250 for each child, simplifying the calculation and administration of child benefit.
Important Notes on the Current Child Benefit Rates
Parents should note that the amount of child benefit remains constant as long as the eligibility requirements are met. Changes in family status, the educational situation, or the living situation of the child must be promptly reported to the family benefits office to ensure correct continued payment of child benefit amounts.