Elterngeld Document Checklist 2026: Everything You Need

Elterngeld Help·Reviewed 17 August 2026

Key takeaways

•The birth certificate and proof of previous income are standard evidence.
•The exact payslip period differs for the birthing and non-birthing parent.
•Further evidence depends on income, maternity benefits, residence and family situation.

Everyone needs these

Birth certificate of your child
Completed state application form
Proof of previous income
Evidence requested for your identity, residence and bank details

Employed parents

For the birthing parent: payslips for the 12 calendar months before the month in which maternity protection began
For the other parent: payslips for the 12 calendar months before birth
Evidence of maternity benefit and the employer supplement, if applicable
Evidence of expected working time and income after birth, if applicable

Self-employed parents

Normally the tax assessment for the relevant completed assessment period
Alternative profit records if the assessment is not yet available
A forecast of profit during the requested life months, if you continue working

Non-German citizens

Residence permit copy (front and back)
Work permit if separate from residence permit
Any additional evidence requested for the specific residence title

Special situations

Additional documents may be needed if you:

•Are a single parent (proof of single status)
•Have other young children (birth certificates for sibling bonus)
•Had pregnancy complications (medical documentation)
•Receive Mutterschaftsgeld (confirmation from health insurance)

Once you have everything ready, our step-by-step guide walks you through filling out the application in English.

Next steps

•Start your application · Plan my Elterngeld
•Find your local office · Where to apply

Frequently asked questions

What documents do I need for the application?

Important documents: 1) Child's birth certificate (original, special version for Elterngeld), 2) Pay slips from 12 months before birth, 3) Mutterschaftsgeld certificate, 4) Employer certificate about Mutterschaftsgeld supplement, 5) For foreigners: Copy of residence permit, 6) For self-employed: Tax assessment.

Does my partner also need to sign the application?

Follow the instructions on your federal state's current form. The other parent's signature or consent can be required even when only one parent claims Elterngeld, while different rules can apply to single parents and other special situations. Your Elterngeldstelle can confirm what applies to your case.

Do I need a tax ID for the Elterngeld application?

Yes, you must provide your tax identification number (Steuer-ID) in the application. Everyone in Germany automatically receives a Steuer-ID. You can find it on your income tax assessment, wage tax certificate, or the letter 'Assignment of Identification Number' from the Federal Central Tax Office.

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Application process

You apply at your local Elterngeldstelle (depends on your Bundesland)

When to apply

Elterngeld is paid retroactively for no more than the three life months before the life month in which the application arrives.

Ready to check your eligibility?

Our free guide walks you through everything step by step.

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