Own Apartment as a Requirement
In order to receive housing benefit, the applicant must have rented an own apartment or room. This means they must be registered as the main tenant or subtenant in the lease agreement and bear the living costs independently. Housing benefit can only be applied for the primary residence that is registered with the residents’ registration office.
Shared Apartments
Apprentices living in a shared apartment (WG) can also apply for housing benefit if they pay their own share of rent and can prove this through a lease agreement or written agreement. In such cases, only the individually borne rental portion will be considered.
Subletting
If the applicant sublets a room, they can continue applying for housing benefit as long as they remain the main tenant of the apartment and bear the remaining rental costs. However, the income from subletting will be counted as income and could affect the amount of housing benefit received.
No Housing Benefit for Free Living
Apprentices living rent-free in their parents’ home or with relatives are not entitled to housing benefit. Housing benefit is provided solely to assist with actual rental costs incurred. Free or nominal living situations do not qualify as eligible housing situations.
Rental Costs as Basis for Funding
For the calculation of housing benefit, only the actual rental costs that can be proven to have been paid will be taken into account. This includes the basic rent as well as cold operating costs. Heating costs and other additional expenses like electricity or internet are not included.
Proof of Rental Costs
For the application, current proof of rental payments is required. This can be provided through bank statements or receipts. The housing benefit office examines the level of rent and whether it corresponds to the regional rent levels relevant for the calculation of housing benefit.
Moving During Receipt
If a move occurs during the receipt of housing benefit, the applicant must promptly inform the housing benefit office of the new residence. Generally, a new application must be submitted for the new apartment, as rental costs and regional rent levels may change.