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Family benefits

Apply for an advance on child support

Government advance payments for children whose other parent pays no or insufficient child support (Sections 1–9 of the UhVorschG).

Processing: approx. 3 weeks
Success rate: 85.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit an application to the Department of Children and Family Services

    Bring the child's birth certificate, your ID card, and proof of non-payment of child support.

  2. 2

    The Youth Welfare Office is reviewing eligibility requirements

    Child welfare services are trying to collect child support from the other parent.

  3. 3

    Monthly payment

    Amount by age group (2024: up to age 6: €230; ages 6–12: €301; ages 12–18: €395).

Required documents

  • Child's birth certificateMandatory

    Proof of parenthood.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 3 weeks

Official: max. approx. 1 months

Online application

In person or by post

Common mistakes

  • • Application not filed retroactively (effective as of the date of application)
  • • The other parent's address is unknown

Common reasons for rejection

  • • The child does not live in the applicant's household
  • • The other parent pays enough

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Single parents with children under 18, if the other parent does not pay child support.

Income limit

Ages 12 and older: The child may not receive SGB II benefits (unless the parent has sufficient income).

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks

Success rate

approx. 85.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Application not filed retroactively (effective as of the date of application)
  • •The other parent's address is unknown

Common reasons for rejection

  • •The child does not live in the applicant's household
  • •The other parent pays enough

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.

Read more