Elterngeld Explained: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents in Germany |Parental Allowance | English

Summary

In this video, Priya from Vanakam Germany explains Germany's parental benefits system, focusing on two key terms: Elterngeld (parental allowance) and ElterngeldPlus. Parents are entitled to financial support for up to 14 months after the birth of their child, with varying amounts based on prior income. The video also clarifies eligibility for international residents, application procedures, and tips for maximizing benefits. Priya provides insights on how to calculate expected benefits and navigate the application process. She also highlights resources for further guidance and the possibility of increasing income by changing tax classes.

Takeaways

• 😀 **Parental Allowance (Elterngeld)** is a financial support program in Germany to help parents care for their newborns, providing time off work with financial assistance.
• 😀 **Elterngeld** is available for up to 14 months, with the duration extended if both parents share the leave.
• 😀 There are two types of **Elterngeld**: Basic Elterngeld (Basiselterngeld) and Extended Parental Allowance (Elterngeld Plus).
• 😀 **Basic Elterngeld** offers a benefit for 2 to 12 months based on 65-67% of the parent's previous net income.
• 😀 **Elterngeld Plus** allows parents to receive a smaller amount for a longer period (up to 24 months) if they work part-time (up to 32 hours per week).
• 😀 **Elterngeld** is available to non-German citizens if they have a valid residence permit allowing them to work in Germany.
• 😀 Even if you are a housewife or unemployed, you are still eligible for a minimum of €300 per month in **Elterngeld**.
• 😀 You can use online calculators to estimate how much **Elterngeld** you are entitled to based on your previous year's income.
• 😀 To apply for **Elterngeld**, download the application form from the Family Portal or apply online, with different portals available for each German state.
• 😀 If both parents are working, it is recommended to consider changing your tax class before applying for **Elterngeld** to optimize your financial benefit.

Q & A

What is Elterngeld in Germany?

Elterngeld (Parental Allowance) is a financial benefit provided by the German government to support parents during the early months after their child's birth, allowing them to take time off work to care for their newborn without losing all their income.

How long can parents receive Elterngeld?

Parents can receive basic Elterngeld for a minimum of 2 months and a maximum of 12 months. If both parents share the leave, it can extend up to 14 months. Elterngeld Plus, which is for parents working part-time, can be extended beyond this, but the monthly amount is halved.

What is the difference between Elterngeld and Elterngeld Plus?

Elterngeld (Basic Parental Allowance) is the standard option where parents receive financial support for a fixed period, based on their income. Elterngeld Plus is an extended version for parents who choose to work part-time while still receiving the allowance. Elterngeld Plus lasts twice as long, but the monthly amount is reduced by half.

Who is eligible for Elterngeld?

Any parent who lives and works in Germany with a valid residence permit that allows them to work is eligible for Elterngeld. However, students or trainees are not eligible. Even housewives or unemployed parents can receive the minimum amount of €300 per month.

Can international citizens apply for Elterngeld?

Yes, international citizens can apply for Elterngeld if they have a residence permit that allows them to work in Germany. However, those in Germany for study or training purposes are not eligible.

How much Elterngeld can a parent receive?

The amount of Elterngeld depends on the parent's income from the previous year. The minimum amount is €300 per month, and the maximum amount is €1,800 per month. If a parent is a housewife or has a low income, they are still eligible to receive the minimum amount.

How is the amount of Elterngeld calculated?

The amount of Elterngeld is calculated based on the parent's average net income from the previous year. The higher the income, the higher the Elterngeld amount, up to the maximum limit.

Where can I apply for Elterngeld?

You can apply for Elterngeld via the Family Portal (familienportal.de) in Germany. Each state has its own application portal. If you live in Bavaria, you can apply through the specific portal for that state.

What documents are required to apply for Elterngeld?

You will need documents such as proof of your income for the previous year (e.g., salary slips or tax declarations). Freelancers or self-employed individuals can submit income and expense statements. If you haven't completed your tax declaration, you can also submit salary slips from the last 12 months.

Can I change my tax class before applying for Elterngeld to increase my allowance?

Yes, if both parents are working, it may be beneficial to change your tax class before applying for Elterngeld to increase your income during the period you receive the allowance.