Wohngeld vs. Bürgergeld – Comparing the Differences
Wohngeld or Bürgergeld? A comparison of both benefits: differences, advantages and disadvantages. Which is better for your situation?
Wohngeld or Bürgergeld – Which Is Better?
Many people wonder whether they should apply for Wohngeld or Bürgergeld. Both benefits serve different purposes and are mutually exclusive. Anyone receiving Bürgergeld (SGB II) cannot receive Wohngeld – and vice versa. This comparison helps you understand the differences.
The Most Important Differences
Wohngeld and Bürgergeld differ in several fundamental respects:
| Kriterium | Wohngeld | Bürgergeld (SGB II) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pure rent subsidy for households with low income – no livelihood security. | Comprehensive livelihood security: covers the entire cost of living (standard benefit + accommodation + heating). |
| Income | Own income is a prerequisite. Only those with a certain minimum income can receive Wohngeld. | No or very low own income. Those who earn enough fall out of Bürgergeld eligibility. |
| Assets | ✅ No asset check! Savings, securities, or property play no role in Wohngeld. | ❌ Asset check. Significant assets (from 40,000 EUR per person) must be used up before receipt. |
| Responsible Authority | Wohngeldstelle of the city administration (in Bochum: Amt für Soziales). No Jobcenter. | Jobcenter. With all obligations such as proof of job applications and integration agreements. |
| Obligations | ✅ No cooperation obligations beyond the application. No job search proof, no appointment requirements at the Jobcenter. | ⚠️ Extensive cooperation obligations: prove job applications, appointments at the Jobcenter, participation in measures. Sanctions may be imposed for violations. |
Why Wohngeld Is Often the Better Choice
If you could in principle be entitled to both benefits, there are many reasons in many cases to favor Wohngeld:
- ✅ No asset check – your savings remain untouched.
- ✅ No obligations to the Jobcenter – no appointments, no proof, no sanctions.
- ✅ Less bureaucracy – the Wohngeld application is simpler and faster.
- ✅ You remain independent – Wohngeld is a subsidy, not a welfare benefit in the narrow sense.
- ✅ Can be combined with other benefits such as Kinderzuschlag, Elterngeld, and maintenance advance.
When Bürgergeld Is the Right Choice
Bürgergeld is the right benefit when your income is so low that you cannot cover your entire livelihood yourself. Even if one household member receives Bürgergeld, the Wohngeld entitlement is eliminated for the entire household. In this case, the Jobcenter covers the costs of accommodation and heating. On the other hand, anyone who works – even part-time or with a low wage – and does not receive other social benefits should definitely check whether Wohngeld is an option.
Find Out Which Benefit Suits You
Use the application service to check your individual entitlement to Wohngeld – straightforward and fast.
Apply for Wohngeld Now →