Apply for Parental Allowance Plus
Parental Allowance Plus is a version of the basic parental allowance for parents who wish to work part-time after the birth of their child—it offers twice the duration of benefits at half the amount.
How to proceed
- 1
Use the parental leave calculator
Comparison of Basic Parental Leave Benefits vs. Parental Leave Plus, with and without the partnership bonus.
- 2
Submit an application to the Parental Benefits Office
Including pay stubs, a birth certificate, and a statement regarding working hours.
- 3
received a notice
ElterngeldPlus is half the amount of the basic parental allowance but lasts twice as long.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 months
Official: max. approx. 3 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Partnership bonus not claimed (4 months per partner when both work part-time)
- • The choice between basic parental leave benefits and the Plus option has not been factored in
Common reasons for rejection
- • Working hours exceed the 32-hour limit
- • Income limit exceeded
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Parents who wish to return to work part-time after the birth and prefer a longer benefit period.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 months
Success rate
approx. 90.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Partnership bonus not claimed (4 months per partner when both work part-time)
- •The choice between basic parental leave benefits and the Plus option has not been factored in
Common reasons for rejection
- •Working hours exceed the 32-hour limit
- •Income limit exceeded
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.