Consideration of Total Household Income
For the calculation of housing benefits, the income of all persons living in a shared household with the applicant is taken into account. This includes not only the applicant but also spouses, partners, and other relatives registered in the apartment. The total income serves as the basis for determining the entitlement to housing benefits.
Definition of Household Members
Household members are defined as all persons living together with the applicant in a residence and who are economically linked. This generally includes spouses or partners, children, and other relatives who belong to the community of needs. Subtenants or roommates in a shared flat are not considered household members, as they act independently economically.
Which Incomes are Considered?
All income from household members, such as salaries, pensions, alimonies, or income from self-employment, is included. Social benefits such as unemployment benefits I, sick pay, or parental benefit also count as income. However, certain tax-free benefits like child benefits are not included.
Exceptions from Consideration
In some cases, the income of household members is not or only partially considered. For example, income from children still in school and not earning their own income is disregarded. Income from voluntary work can remain exempt from consideration up to a certain allowance.
Income in Communities of Need
In communities of need, the total household income is summed up to determine the entitlement to housing benefits. This particularly affects families and cohabiting couples. The income of the partner is fully considered, even if they are not the applicant.
Proof Requirement for Household Members’ Income
All household members whose income is considered in the housing benefit calculation must provide proof of their income. Required documents include pay slips, tax assessment notices, pension notices, or evidence of social benefits. Without complete proof, no housing benefits can be granted.
Change in Household Income
If a household member’s income changes during the receipt of housing benefits, this must be reported to the housing benefit office immediately. An increase in income may lead to a reduction or loss of entitlement to housing benefits. Conversely, a decrease in income may increase the entitlement.
No Consideration of Income When Living Separately
If a spouse or partner lives permanently apart from the applicant and maintains their own household, their income is not considered in the housing benefit calculation. A requirement is that the separation is verifiable, for example, through separate residences.