RaayaElterngeld: parental allowance in Germany
- Built-in template
- Last reviewed: 2026-10
Elterngeld replaces part of your income while you look after your baby. Each parent applies to the Elterngeld office of their federal state, often online through ElterngeldDigital. Apply within the first three months after the birth: payments only go back three months before the month your application arrives.
Start this journey in RaayaSteps
Plan the months
Decide which months each parent takes, and whether you choose Basiselterngeld, ElterngeldPlus or a mix. The federal Elterngeld calculator helps.
Collect proof of income
Employees need payslips for the 12 months before the birth (or before maternity protection); self-employed parents need their tax assessment.
Get the birth certificate
You need a birth certificate for Elterngeld from the registry office (Standesamt).
Apply
Apply online where your state supports it, or with your state's paper form. Both parents sign if both take months.
Keep an eye on letters
The Elterngeld office may ask for more documents. Reply by the date in the letter.
Documents you'll need
- Birth certificate for Elterngeld
- Payslips or tax assessment for the period before the birth
- Confirmation of maternity pay (Mutterschaftsgeld), if you got it
- Residence permit, if you are not an EU citizen
- Employer confirmation of parental leave (Elternzeit), if asked
Deadlines (Fristen)
- Payments go back only three months before the month your application arrives: apply within the first three months after the birth.
- Tell your employer about parental leave (Elternzeit) in writing, usually seven weeks before it starts.
Questions and answers
How much Elterngeld will I get?
It depends on your income before the birth, with a minimum and a maximum, and an income limit above which there is no Elterngeld. Use the official calculator and check the current rules.
Is Elterngeld the same as Elternzeit?
No. Elternzeit is the leave from your job (arranged with your employer); Elterngeld is the money (applied for at the Elterngeld office).
Start from a template
Official sources
Related guides
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General information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the official source or get advice for your case before you act.