Pregnancy, or at the latest when a baby is born, brings many changes: These include not only coming together as a family and as parents, but also financial matters that concern (expectant) mothers and fathers. Are you worried about your financial situation? Do you often find yourself short of money at the end of the month? You're not alone. Many families have to budget carefully. The good news is that there are various government benefits that provide financial support for families. However, many parents aren't even aware that they are entitled to them. We'll show you what assistance is available and where you can apply for it.
Child benefit – for all families
Child benefit is generally available to all families – regardless of income. You can apply for child benefit if your child is under 18 years old (under certain conditions, child benefit is also available for adult children). Furthermore, you must regularly provide for your child, and they must live in your household (this also applies to stepchildren, grandchildren, or foster children), and you must live in Germany, another EU country, Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland, or Switzerland. You can find out more on the page "Child benefit for people living abroad." Since January 2026, you receive €259 in child benefit per child per month. The money is paid by the Family Benefits Office of the Federal Employment Agency.
More information: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/familie-und-kinder/kindergeld
Child supplement – when there isn't enough money for the children
Do you work or have your own income, but still don't have enough left for your children at the end of the month? Then the child supplement can help. You can receive up to €297 per child per month. Whether and how much you receive depends on factors such as your income, your rent, and the size of your family. Tip: You can use the Child Supplement Navigator to check free of charge whether applying is worthwhile.
- More information: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/familie-und-kinder/kinderzuschlag
Housing benefit – help with housing costs
Rent is a major burden for many families. If your income is low and you don't receive basic social security benefits, you may be eligible for housing benefit. The amount of housing benefit depends on factors such as how many people live in your household, your income, and your rent.
- More information: Applying for housing benefit for the first time or for a new application
Basic income support – when income is insufficient
If your family's income isn't enough to cover your living expenses, you may be eligible for basic income support. The amount you receive depends on your personal circumstances. Factors such as your income, housing costs, and family size are taken into account. It's best to seek advice. Often, there are additional benefits you may be entitled to.
- More information: Basic income support calculator | Bremen Job Center
Additional support in special situations
Sometimes standard support isn't enough. That's why there are additional needs allowances (available through the Bremen Job Center). For example, you can receive extra money if you are a single parent, pregnant (from the 13th week of pregnancy onwards), require a special diet for health reasons, or have increased needs due to a disability. Expectant mothers also receive a lump sum for maternity clothing and baby essentials. The responsible authority will review whether an additional needs allowance is granted.
- More information: For women & single parents | Bremen Job Center
Child support advance – if the other parent doesn't pay
Does the other parent pay no child support or only pay irregularly? Then you can apply for child support advance payments. In Bremen, the Office for Social Services is responsible. Since January 2026, the child support advance payment has been €227 for children up to 5 years old, €299 for children from 6 to 11 years old, and €394 for children from 12 to 17 years old.
- More information: Child support advance office – Office for Social Services
Education and participation – so your child can participate everywhere
Children should be able to learn, play, and discover their talents with their friends – regardless of their family's financial situation. That's why the Education and Participation Package exists. It can cover expenses such as: class trips and school excursions, school supplies, school or daycare lunches, student transportation, tutoring if needed, sports clubs, music lessons, or other leisure activities. Ask your local advice center if your child is eligible for these benefits.
- More information: Education and Participation Package
Good to know: Many families miss out on money every month because they don't know their entitlements. Therefore, be sure to check if you are eligible for child benefit, child supplement, housing benefit, child support advance, or other benefits. Many benefits can be combined, so it's almost always worthwhile to have your eligibility checked. If you're unsure or find the forms difficult, contact us! We'll find the right support for you.
