Question 1

How is Elterngeld calculated?

Accepted Answer

Elterngeld is based on Elterngeld-Netto — a special net income calculated from gross minus flat-rate deductions (tax, social insurance). The replacement rate ranges from 65% to 100%, depending on income. Minimum: €300/month, maximum: €1,800/month (basic Elterngeld).

Question 2

What's the difference between basic Elterngeld and ElterngeldPlus?

Accepted Answer

Basic Elterngeld pays up to €1,800/month for max. 14 months. ElterngeldPlus pays half (max. €900) for double the duration. ElterngeldPlus is especially worthwhile when working part-time during parental leave.

Question 3

How many months of Elterngeld can I receive?

Accepted Answer

A total of 14 months of basic Elterngeld for both parents combined (max. 12 per person, min. 2 'partner months'). Single parents can claim all 14 months alone. With ElterngeldPlus, the duration doubles.

Question 4

Is it worth switching tax classes before birth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, often! If the parent receiving Elterngeld switches to tax class III, the Elterngeld-Netto and thus the Elterngeld increases. The switch must happen at least 7 months before birth to be considered in the calculation.

Question 5

Do I get Elterngeld if I work part-time?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can work up to 32 hours/week and still receive Elterngeld. The benefit is then calculated based on the difference between pre-birth net income and part-time net income.

Question 6

What is the minimum Elterngeld?

Accepted Answer

The minimum Elterngeld is €300/month (basic) or €150/month (ElterngeldPlus). It is paid even if you had no income before birth — e.g., students or homemakers.

Question 7

What is the sibling bonus?

Accepted Answer

If you have a child under 3 or two children under 6, you receive a sibling bonus: +10% of Elterngeld, at least +€75 (basic) or +€37.50 (Plus) per month.

Question 8

Can both parents receive Elterngeld simultaneously?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both parents can receive Elterngeld at the same time. However, simultaneous months are deducted from the total 14 months. The partnership bonus (4 extra months each) requires both to work 24-32 hours/week.

Question 9

How does the 2025 income cap affect eligibility?

Accepted Answer

Since 2025: Couples with taxable income above €200,000 and single parents above €150,000 are no longer eligible for Elterngeld. Previously, the limit was €300,000 (couples) and €250,000 (single parents).

Question 10

When do I need to apply for Elterngeld?

Accepted Answer

Elterngeld can only be applied for after birth, but is paid retroactively for up to 3 months before the application month. Tip: Apply as early as possible after birth, ideally within the first 3 months.

Guide: Parental Leave Calculator

German Parental Leave Benefits 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Tax Class Switch Before Birth: Maximize Your Parental Benefits

ElterngeldPlus vs. Basic: Which Pays More?

Parental Benefits for Self-Employed in Germany

Part-time During Parental Leave: How to Calculate

Parental Benefit Income Cap: Who Loses Eligibility?