Life doesn't always go according to plan. Maybe your work situation changed, or you and your partner want to reorganize who takes which months. Good news: You can modify your Elterngeld even after it's been approved.
Modifications to months you haven't received yet are usually straightforward. You submit a change request (Änderungsantrag) to your Elterngeldstelle explaining what you want to change.
This is trickier. If you've already received Elterngeld for a month, changes might mean you have to pay some back.
Example: You received Basiselterngeld for months 1-4, then want to convert months 3-4 to ElterngeldPlus. You'd need to repay the difference.
However, if the change benefits you (e.g., you're owed more), you'll receive the additional amount.
Explain what you want to change and why. They'll tell you what documentation you need and process the modification.
Yes, you can request changes as long as the relevant life month has not yet ended. For already completed months, changes are only possible in exceptional cases, e.g., if the change would result in less Elterngeld or in case of serious illness of a parent.
Yes, as long as the relevant life month hasn't started yet, you can change your planning (e.g., switch from Basiselterngeld to ElterngeldPlus or shift months). For ongoing or completed months, changes are only possible in exceptional cases. So plan carefully, but changes are possible if needed.
You must inform your Elterngeldstelle immediately if: You move, child no longer lives with you, you start/end a job, your working hours change, your income changes, your bank details change. Failure to report can lead to reclaims and in worst cases fines.
A provisional decision means your information couldn't be fully verified yet (e.g., tax assessment still missing). You still receive Elterngeld, but the amount may change later. After final review, you'll receive a final decision – possibly with additional payment or reclaim.
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