How to Split Elterngeld Months Between Parents

Parents share 12 Basiselterngeld months. Two additional partner months are available when at least one parent had income from work before birth and income falls for two life months after birth. Each parent who claims must take at least two life months.

The months may be consecutive or alternating. Simultaneous Basis receipt is generally limited for births from April 2024; statutory exceptions apply.

The 'traditional' split (12+2): Mom takes 12 months, dad takes 2 months. This unlocks all 14 months while one parent takes most of the leave.

The 'equal' split (7+7): Both parents take 7 months each. Often done consecutively (mom first, then dad).

The 'overlap' approach: Both parents take leave at the same time for some period. Great for the early weeks when you both want to be home.

One Basis month can be converted into two Plus months. The conversion spreads the same entitlement over more life months; it does not create a second budget.

After life month 14, at least one parent must receive ElterngeldPlus or Partnerschaftsbonus without a gap. The latest possible month is generally life month 32. Plan the actual sequence.

Both parents can receive Elterngeld in the same life month, but the type matters. Two simultaneous Basis months consume two entitlements and, for births from April 2024, are generally possible together only for one of the first twelve life months. Different rules apply when one parent receives Plus, and the law contains exceptions.