Kindergeld Child Benefit Rises to €259 Monthly, Effective January 2026
Germany automatically increased child benefit (Kindergeld) by €4 per month to €259 starting January 1, 2026. The adjustment requires no new application and benefits all families with children, regardless of income.
From January 2026, Germany's child benefit (Kindergeld) will rise from €255 to €259 per child per month, amounting to €3,108 per year per child. This increase is automatic – parents do not need to apply for it.
Who Receives It and How Much
As of 2026, the child benefit in Germany is €259 per month, per child. There is no maximum salary for receiving the child benefit in Germany. The same amount is paid to everyone, no matter how much you earn. Eligibility remains unchanged: parents or guardians of minor children can claim it, and the benefit is paid retroactively for up to six months if you apply late.
Broader Family Support Updates
For families on lower incomes, 2026 brings a modest increase in support. The maximum child supplement (Kinderzuschlag) – the highest amount a family can receive per child – remains at €297 per month. The immediate child supplement will rise from €20 to €25 per month per child.
Practical Implications for Expat Families
If you are living in Germany as a resident or hold a valid residence permit and have children, you are entitled to claim Kindergeld. The January 2026 increase is already in effect—no paperwork needed. If you arrived in Germany recently or have just had a baby, apply at your local Familienkasse (Family Benefits Office) without delay, as payments can be made retroactively for up to six months. For two or more children, the monthly benefit multiplies per child.
Sources
Independent app, not a government. General information, not advice. The official source:
