Applying for Elterngeld involves:
1. Gathering documents 2. Filling out the application form 3. Submitting (online or paper) 4. Waiting for processing 5. Receiving your decision and first payment
Before you start filling out forms, collect everything you'll need:
You have two options:
Online: Most Bundesländer now offer ElterngeldDigital at elterngeld-digital.de. It guides you through the process and pre-fills some information.
Paper: Download the form from your state's website. It's several pages long with questions about your income, work plans, and how you want to split months with your partner.
Online applications can be submitted electronically (though some documents may still need to be mailed).
Paper applications go to your local Elterngeldstelle – either by mail or in person.
Make copies of everything you submit!
Processing takes 4-8 weeks. During this time, the office might contact you for additional documents or clarification.
Respond quickly to any requests – delays here mean delays in your payment.
You should apply as soon as your child is born. Elterngeld is paid retroactively for max. 3 months. If you want Elterngeld from birth, apply at the latest when your child is 3 months old. Tip: Prepare everything before the birth!
At the Elterngeldstelle (parental allowance office) of your federal state. Find your responsible office at www.familienportal.de. In some states you can apply online (ElterngeldDigital). Both parents must sign the application, even if only one applies for Elterngeld.
ElterngeldDigital is an online application process available in many federal states (e.g., Bavaria, Berlin, Hamburg, Saxony, and more). You can fill out the application on the computer, some data is automatically transferred, and you can upload documents. In the end, you still need to print, sign, and mail the application.
Our free guide walks you through everything step by step.
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