Elterngeld: support for parents after the birth of a child

Elterngeld is a state benefit for parents who work less after the birth of a child in order to care for it. It is paid out by the parental benefit office (Elterngeldstelle).
What is important to know:

• basic Elterngeld ranges from 300 to 1,800 € per month; the amount depends on your income before the birth;
• as a rule, it is 65–67 % of the average net income over the 12 months before the birth;
• the basic option is paid for up to 14 months and is shared between the parents;
• entitlement is lost if the family's taxable annual income exceeds 175,000 €.

How to apply:

• the application is submitted to the Elterngeldstelle after the birth (it can be done online via Elterngeld-Digital);
• you need the birth certificate, proof of income and proof of residence;
• the condition is lawful stay and residence in Germany together with the child.

Amounts, limits and conditions change from time to time — check with an official source or a consultation.