Wohngeld Rejected – Objection & Legal Remedies
Wohngeld application rejected? Reasons for rejection, how to file an objection and legal remedies. How to appeal a negative Wohngeld decision.
Wohngeld Application Rejected – What Now?
Not every Wohngeld application is approved. If your application has been rejected, you have the right to file an objection. Here you can find out what reasons exist for rejection and how to proceed against it.
Common Reasons for Rejection
A Wohngeld application can be rejected for various reasons:
- ❌ Your income exceeds the applicable income limit – even the minimum Wohngeld amount would no longer be reached.
- ❌ You or a household member receive Bürgergeld (SGB II) or basic income support (SGB XII) – these benefits exclude Wohngeld.
- ❌ As a student, you are in principle entitled to BAföG – even if you do not receive it.
- ❌ Incomplete documents – the application could not be finally processed because documents were missing.
- ❌ Your rent is significantly above the maximum amount – arithmetically, no Wohngeld entitlement results.
Filing an Objection – Step by Step
If you disagree with the rejection, you can file an objection within one month of receiving the decision notice. Here's how:
Examine the rejection notice carefully: What reason was given? Is the calculation comprehensible?
Write an objection letter: Explain why you believe the rejection is incorrect. Quote the reference number from the notice.
If applicable, enclose missing or corrected documents that support your objection.
Send the objection by registered mail to the Wohngeldstelle Bochum – this gives you proof of timely filing.
The Wohngeldstelle will review your objection and issue an objection decision. If the objection is upheld, you will receive Wohngeld retroactively.
⚠️ Important: The objection period is one month from receipt of the rejection notice. After the deadline, the notice becomes final – an objection is then no longer possible.
When Should I Seek Legal Help?
If the objection is rejected, you can file a lawsuit with the Social Court (Sozialgericht). At the latest then, you should seek legal advice. In many cases, there are also advisory services – e.g., the Sozialverband Deutschland (SoVD) or the tenants' association – that provide support with Wohngeld issues. The period for filing a lawsuit is one month after receipt of the objection decision.
Avoid Rejections from the Start
The application service helps you submit your Wohngeld application completely and correctly from the start – minimizing the risk of rejection.
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