Minijob While on Elterngeld: What to Know

Having a Minijob (up to €603/month in 2026) while receiving Elterngeld is completely legal. Many parents keep a small job for extra income or to stay connected to their workplace.

Here's what many people miss: Your Minijob hours count toward the 32-hour weekly limit.

• If you have:
• •A part-time main job: 20 hours/week
• •A Minijob: 15 hours/week
• •Total: 35 hours/week → Over the limit!

Even though €603/month seems small, the hours can push you over. Make sure your combined hours stay under 32.

Any income during Elterngeld, including Minijob income, reduces your payment. The Elterngeldstelle compares your income before and during Elterngeld using a standardized Elterngeld net, not the amount paid into your account, and the rate is between 65% and 100%. So the exact reduction cannot be predicted with a single 65% calculation.

You still come out ahead financially, but it's not €603 'free money' on top of your Elterngeld.

If you had a Minijob before birth, that income is included in your Elterngeld calculation, it increases your base payment.

If you start a Minijob during Elterngeld, it reduces your payment.

So a Minijob you had before birth is better for your Elterngeld than one you start after.