Monthly Payment in Advance
The housing benefit is paid monthly in advance. The transfer occurs at the beginning of each month for the entire month. This is to ensure that recipients can use the housing benefit in time to cover their rent costs.
Start of Payment
The payment of housing benefits begins with the month in which the application was submitted, provided that all requirements are met. Example: If the application is submitted in April and approved in May, the first payment will be made retroactively from April.
Payment to the Bank Account
The housing benefit is transferred to the bank account specified by the applicant. It is important that the bank details are stated correctly, as errors can lead to delays in payment. Changes in account details must be reported to the housing benefit office immediately.
Suspension and Termination of Payment
The payment of housing benefits can be suspended or terminated if:
- the requirements for entitlement to housing benefits are no longer met
- changes in personal or economic circumstances are not reported
- the applicant fails to comply with their notification obligation
In such cases, the housing benefit decision will be revoked, and there may be a demand for repayment of already paid housing benefits.
Retroactive Payments
If an application is processed late but approved retroactively, a payment for the retroactive months will be made in one sum. The regular monthly payment will then start in the following month.
Payment in Case of Change in Housing Benefit Amount
If the amount of housing benefit increases or decreases due to changes in income or living conditions, the adjusted amount will be paid starting from the following month. Usually, no additional or retroactive payment for the current month will be made.
End of Payment
The housing benefit payment automatically ends with the expiration of the approved period. If a subsequent application is submitted and approved in time, the payment will continue without interruption. Otherwise, the payment ends with the last month of the approved period.
Important Notes on Payment
To ensure smooth payment, applicants should always provide up-to-date bank information and report any changes promptly. For questions regarding payment, applicants may contact the housing benefit office directly.