Special Situations for Child Benefit (Kindergeld) During Vocational Training (Ausbildung) in Germany 2025

There is a claim to child benefit during vocational training (Ausbildung) abroad if the trainee or the parents are subject to unlimited tax liability in Germany. The vocational training (Ausbildung) must take place at a recognized educational institution in the EU/EEA or Switzerland.

Entitlement to child benefit also exists during part-time vocational training, provided that it is a recognized vocational training and the trainee has not yet reached the age of 25. Part-time vocational training is usually completed for personal or family reasons.

An entitlement to child benefit for trainees with disabilities exists beyond the age of 25 if the disability occurred before the age of 25 and the trainee is unable to support themselves financially due to the disability.

Overpaid child benefit can be reclaimed by the family fund if entitlement has ceased due to changes such as termination of vocational training (Ausbildung), interruption, or change of residence, and these changes were not reported in time.

Child benefit can be received in parallel to other benefits like Vocational Training Assistance (BAB), BAföG, and housing benefit. Generally, it is not counted as income when calculating these benefits.