Basis for Consideration
The consideration of the parents’ income is used to determine the amount of BAföG funding. It is generally assumed that parents can financially support their children during their vocational training (Ausbildung). Therefore, the parents’ income is considered in the BAföG funding of the applicant if it exceeds certain exempt amounts.
Calculation of Considerable Income
In calculating the considerable income, the exempt amounts for the parent, the spouse of the parent, and for other dependents are deducted first. The remaining income that exceeds the sum of these exempt amounts is considered as considerable income. Only this exceeding amount is taken into account in calculating the funding level.
Consideration Percentage
The income of the parents exceeding the exempt amounts is not fully considered but rather at a certain percentage. Currently, the consideration percentage is 50% of the income that exceeds the exempt amounts. This means that only half of the exceeding income is actually considered in the applicant’s funding.
Example of Consideration
Suppose the income of a parent is 3,000 euros monthly. After deducting the basic exempt amount of 2,415 euros, 585 euros remain as exceeding income. Of these 585 euros, 50% are considered, meaning 292.50 euros will be included in the applicant’s BAföG funding. This amount reduces the potential funding.
Special Regulations for Fluctuating Income
For parents whose income fluctuates significantly, such as self-employed or freelancers, the average income from the penultimate calendar year is used. However, if the current income of the parents has significantly decreased, a recalculation based on the current income can be requested.
Consideration of Income for Parents Living Separately
If the applicant’s parents are separated, only the income of the parent with whom the applicant lives or with whom there is closer contact is considered. The income of the other parent is only taken into account if they are liable for maintenance and fulfill their obligations.
Income from Capital Assets and Rental Income
Income from capital assets, such as interest and dividends, as well as rental income of the parents, are also included in the BAföG calculation. Such income must be stated in the parents’ tax declaration and will be incorporated into the determination of the considerable income if they exceed the exempt amounts.
Proofs for Consideration
The applicant’s parents must submit comprehensive proofs to determine the considerable income. These include:
- Current tax assessment from the penultimate calendar year.
- Proofs of extraordinary burdens, such as medical costs or maintenance payments, if applicable.
- Certificates of income from self-employment, leasing, or capital assets.
Impact of Consideration on Funding
The consideration of the parents’ income reduces the potential BAföG funding of the applicant. The higher the considerable income of the parents, the lower the funding will be. If the considerable income exceeds the threshold above which no funding is granted, the entitlement to BAföG is eliminated. However, the consideration is always individual and takes into account all exempt amounts and special circumstances.