Entitlement to Child Benefit during Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
There is an entitlement to child benefit during vocational training (Ausbildung), but under stricter conditions than in the case of initial training. A second vocational training (Ausbildung) occurs when the trainee seeks further qualifications after completing their first vocational training (Ausbildung) or a professional degree, for example, a second vocational training (Ausbildung), a subsequent study program, or further education that leads to a professional qualification.
Basic Requirements for Child Benefit Eligibility
The basic requirement for entitlement to child benefit during second vocational training (Ausbildung) is that the trainee is under 25 years old. Furthermore, the second vocational training (Ausbildung) must take place at a state-recognized educational institution or in a training company. The trainee may not engage in extensive employment during the second vocational training (Ausbildung) to maintain the entitlement to child benefit.
Restriction on Employment
One of the key prerequisites for child benefit entitlement during second vocational training (Ausbildung) is the limitation of employment. The trainee may work a maximum of 20 hours per week alongside their second vocational training (Ausbildung). This regulation ensures that the training (Ausbildung) takes precedence and is not affected by extensive professional activities.
Exceptions apply to minor employment (mini-jobs) or activities within an employment relationship with flexible working hours, as long as the average working time does not exceed 20 hours per week. If these limits are exceeded, the entitlement to child benefit ceases.
Examples of Second Vocational Trainings (Ausbildung)
- Second vocational training (Ausbildung): A trainee who starts further training (Ausbildung) in another field after completing their initial training (Ausbildung).
- Further study: A graduate of dual training (Ausbildung) who undertakes a subsequent bachelor’s or master’s program to expand their qualifications.
- Professional development: A training (Ausbildung) course that leads to a recognized qualification, such as master or technician training (Ausbildung).
Proof of Eligibility
To claim child benefit during second vocational training (Ausbildung), appropriate proof must be submitted to the family benefits office. Required documents include:
- A certificate from the training institute or university confirming enrollment in second vocational training (Ausbildung)
- A confirmation from the employer regarding the weekly working hours, if the trainee is employed
- Possibly a copy of the training contract
Child Benefit in Parallel Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
There can also be entitlement to child benefit in parallel vocational training (Ausbildung), provided the above-mentioned requirements are met. It is particularly important to observe the limitation of employment to a maximum of 20 hours per week. Parallel vocational trainings (Ausbildung), where the trainee continues to work in their previous profession, will only be eligible for child benefit if the weekly working hours do not exceed this limit.
Waiting Period between Initial Training (Ausbildung) and Second Training (Ausbildung)
If there is a waiting period between initial training (Ausbildung) and second vocational training (Ausbildung), the entitlement to child benefit may continue during this transition period. The condition is that the waiting period does not exceed four months and that the trainee has either already received a confirmation for the second vocational training (Ausbildung) or can provide evidence of seeking a new training (Ausbildung) position.
Important Notes on Child Benefit during Second Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
Child benefit during second vocational training (Ausbildung) is an important financial support, especially if no or only a low remuneration is paid. Parents and trainees should ensure that the family benefits office is informed in a timely manner about the start of the second vocational training (Ausbildung) as well as the weekly working hours. Changes in the training (Ausbildung) or employment process, such as a change of training position or an increase in working hours, must be reported immediately to avoid jeopardizing the entitlement.
If the second vocational training (Ausbildung) is terminated prematurely, the entitlement to child benefit ends with the month of termination. A new entitlement may arise if the trainee takes up another eligible training (Ausbildung) that meets the requirements.