Child benefit

Child benefit is a state allowance towards the costs incurred by mothers and fathers whilst their child is unable to support themselves. Entitlement exists regardless of income, from the child’s birth until they reach the age of 18. Under certain conditions, child benefit may continue to be paid beyond this age. Entitlement to child benefit exists provided that the conditions set out in Section 32 of the Income Tax Act (EStG) are met. Even the parents of students may still be entitled to child benefit for their children who are studying.

Entitlement to child benefit generally applies for every month in which the eligibility criteria were met on at least one day. Child benefit is paid monthly and is not means-tested.

Applications for child benefit must be submitted to the Family Benefits Office:

Since 2 September 2024, the Bavaria South Family Benefits Office has been based at Kapuzinerplatz 6, 80337 Munich, with a service point for families in the state capital. Through its customer and guidance service, the Bavaria South Family Benefits Office offers not only digital services but also personal access to a wider range of services. Key objectives include open, unhindered access; short waiting times; the swift and, where possible, conclusive handling of customer enquiries – particularly regarding child benefit and the child supplement; and a comprehensive guidance service.

The contact details for the Munich office are https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/vor-ort/familienkasse/familienkasse-bayern-sued-muenchen.html.

If you receive child benefit and are on a low income, you may be eligible for the child supplement. Find out more about the key points regarding this benefit on the Federal Employment Agency’s website.