Parental allowance (Elterngeld) replaces part of the income lost when parents stop or reduce work to care for their newborn in the first months of its life.

How the basic allowance is calculated (Basiselterngeld)

The basic allowance is 65% (for low incomes up to 100%) of the average net monthly income in the 12 months before the month of birth. There are fixed limits: a minimum of €300 and a maximum of €1,800 a month.

Duration and partner months

One parent can receive the basic allowance for a maximum of 12 months. If the other parent also takes at least two months, the family receives a total of 14 months. Both parents can receive the basic allowance at the same time for only one month within the child's first 12 months of life (with exceptions, for example for premature babies). For children born on or after 1 April 2025, there is no entitlement if the parents' taxable income exceeds €175,000.

ElterngeldPlus for parents working part-time

ElterngeldPlus doubles the duration but halves the monthly amount. It suits parents who plan to work part-time (up to 32 hours a week) during the child's first year while still receiving parental allowance.

Tax class and parental allowance

The allowance is based on net income in the 12 months before the birth. If the parent who will receive the allowance changes tax class in good time (the new class must apply for at least seven months of the assessment period), net income and therefore the allowance may increase. Discuss this with a professional, as the change also affects your partner's taxes.

What to check

  • Gather payslips for the 12 months before your maternity protection period begins.
  • Notify your employer of your parental leave (Elternzeit) at least seven weeks before it starts.
  • Apply to the parental allowance office after the birth, with the birth certificate.
  • Check whether ElterngeldPlus pays off if you plan to work part-time.

Example situation

A mother takes 12 months of parental allowance at the maximum rate of €1,800, the father takes two summer months, and the family receives a total of €25,200 in support.

Next step

Parental allowance typically replaces around 65% of income; plan how to divide the months between parents a few months before the birth.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.