Finding childcare and claiming the money German families are entitled to.
The Kita hunt: securing childcare from age oneChildren have a legal right (Rechtsanspruch) to childcare from their first birthday — but in big cities demand far exceeds supply, so the search starts during pregnancy, not after birth.Kindergeld — €255 per child, per monthKindergeld is a flat monthly payment per child (€255 in 2025), paid regardless of income. Foreign residents with a work-permitting residence title are generally eligible — but you must apply, it is not automatic.
Elterngeld: income replacement during parental leaveElterngeld replaces about 65% of your previous net income (between €300 and €1,800 per month) while you look after your baby. Parents can share 12 base months plus 2 partner months.The lesser-known family benefits worth checkingBeyond Kindergeld and Elterngeld, working families on modest incomes can stack Kinderzuschlag, Wohngeld, and the education package — together often worth hundreds of euros per month.