Where to Apply for Elterngeld: Find Your Local Office

Your Elterngeldstelle (parental allowance office) is determined by where you live – specifically, where you're registered (angemeldet).

Each of Germany's 16 Bundesländer organizes this differently. Some have central offices, others have local ones in each city or district.

Our guide walks you through every question in English and generates your pre-filled application PDF. You can:

• •Check your eligibility step by step
• •Calculate your personal Elterngeld amount
• •Plan how to split months between parents
• •Download your completed 23-page application

For most cases, this is the easiest way to apply. Complex situations might still require in-person visits to your local Elterngeldstelle.

To find your exact office:

1. Go to familienportal.de 2. Enter your postal code 3. You'll see contact details for your local Elterngeldstelle

Alternatively, search '[Your city] Elterngeldstelle' – most have their own websites with hours, addresses, and often online booking for appointments.

Many offices now work by appointment only. Even if you're applying by mail or online, an appointment can be helpful if:

• •Your situation is complicated
• •You have questions about how to fill out the form
• •You want someone to review your documents before submission

Appointments are usually free and can save you time later.