Wohngeld Dortmund — Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find answers to the most common questions about Wohngeld in Dortmund. Click on a question to read the answer.
What is Wohngeld and who receives it?
Wohngeld is a government rent subsidy for low-income households. Tenants whose income is below the statutory limit and who do not receive other transfer benefits such as Bürgergeld are eligible.
How much Wohngeld is available in Dortmund?
The amount depends on household size, income and rent. In Dortmund (rent level 3), the maximum Wohngeld for a 1-person household is up to €400 per month, for 4 people up to €850.
How do I apply for Wohngeld in Dortmund?
You submit the application to the Wohngeld office in Dortmund (Südwall 2-4). Complete the application form, attach all required documents and submit it in person, by post or online. Booking an appointment is recommended.
What documents do I need for the Wohngeld application?
You need: completed application form, landlord certificate, tenancy agreement, proof of income for the last 12 months, bank statements and identity card. For children, additionally proof of child benefit.
How long does it take to process the Wohngeld application?
In Dortmund, processing currently takes about 4 to 8 weeks after receipt of complete documents. If documents are incomplete, processing is delayed accordingly.
When is Wohngeld paid out?
Wohngeld is transferred monthly in advance, usually at the end of the previous month or by the 3rd working day of the current month at the latest. The first payment may be higher as it is backdated from the application month.
Can I apply for Wohngeld retrospectively?
Wohngeld is granted from the month of application — not retrospectively for earlier months. Therefore, submit the application as early as possible. Retrospective approval is only possible in legally regulated exceptional cases.
Can I apply for Wohngeld online?
Yes, the city of Dortmund offers an online application via its service portal. You can complete the application digitally and submit documents electronically. Online applications generally speed up processing.
What is rent level 3 in Dortmund?
Rent level 3 is Dortmund's classification in the Wohngeld system. It determines the maximum eligible rent. The higher the rent level (from 1 to 7), the more rent is taken into account in the calculation. Dortmund is in the middle range.
Can I receive Wohngeld if I work?
Yes, employees with low incomes are often entitled to Wohngeld — even full-time. The decisive factor is the ratio of income to rent, not the fact of employment.
Do students receive Wohngeld in Dortmund?
Students are generally not entitled to Wohngeld if they are eligible for BAföG. Exceptions apply e.g. if they exceed the age limit, are on a leave semester, or live with a child or non-student partner.
What happens after the approval period expires?
The approval period is 12 months. After that, payments stop automatically. You must apply in good time — about 2 months before expiry — by submitting a new application (renewal application) to continue receiving Wohngeld.
What must I report to the Wohngeld office?
You must report changes in your circumstances immediately: income changes of more than 15%, changes in household members, moving house, or cessation of rent payments. Failure to report may result in reclaims.
Can I receive Wohngeld and Bürgergeld at the same time?
No, Wohngeld and Bürgergeld are mutually exclusive. Anyone receiving Bürgergeld is not entitled to Wohngeld. Conversely, anyone receiving Wohngeld does not receive Bürgergeld.
What is Wohngeld Plus?
Wohngeld Plus is the name for the reformed Wohngeld since 2025. It includes a permanent heating cost component, a climate component (CO₂ compensation), higher Wohngeld amounts and raised income limits.
Does child benefit count as income for Wohngeld?
No, child benefit does not count as assessable income in the Wohngeld calculation. This means child benefit does not reduce your Wohngeld entitlement.
What can I do if my Wohngeld application is rejected?
You can appeal within one month of receiving the rejection notice. The appeal must be submitted in writing to the Dortmund Wohngeld office with reasons. If the appeal is rejected again, legal action is possible.
Can multiple people in a shared flat receive Wohngeld?
In a shared flat, Wohngeld is only calculated for people who form a joint household. Pure flat-shares without joint finances are not considered a joint household. Each resident can apply separately for their share of the rent.
Is there an allowance for severely disabled persons with Wohngeld?
Yes, with a degree of disability of 100 or care level 3 and above, an allowance of €1,800 per year applies, which is deducted from income. This increases the Wohngeld entitlement.
Where can I find the Wohngeld office in Dortmund?
The Wohngeld office is located at Südwall 2-4, 44122 Dortmund (entrance Berswordt-Halle). Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8 AM-12 PM, Thu additionally 2 PM-5 PM. Nearest underground: Stadtgarten. Appointment booking recommended.
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