Eligibility for Child Benefit
Child benefit is available to all parents living in Germany whose children are in training. This includes school-based and vocational training, studies, as well as internships related to the training.
Amount of Child Benefit
The amount of child benefit is 250 euros per child (as of 2024). Payments are made monthly and cease no later than the child’s 25th birthday. Under certain circumstances, such as the child’s disability, child benefit can be paid beyond the age of 25.
Requirements for Child Benefit Eligibility in Training
To receive child benefit, the child must be undergoing training. It is not necessary for it to be a full-time training; however, the training character must be given. This also includes dual study programs or part-time vocational training.
Extension of Child Benefit Eligibility
In some cases, the entitlement to child benefit can be extended beyond the age of 25, for example, during voluntary service or if the child could not start vocational training earlier due to military service.
Child Benefit During Second Training
Child benefit can also be paid during a second training if the child does not work more than 20 hours per week. If this limit is exceeded, the entitlement to child benefit is lost.
Application and Payment
Child benefit is applied for at the family benefits office of the Federal Employment Agency. Payments are typically made to the parents, but upon request, it can also be paid directly to the child if they live independently.
Child Benefit and Tax Allowance
As an alternative to child benefit, parents can claim the child tax allowance. This is automatically checked by the tax office as part of the income tax declaration, and the more favorable amount is taken into account.