Child benefit is paid to parents, not to the trainee as training pay. The amount is the same for every child; it does not increase with age, year of training, or training pay. After the 18th birthday, payment depends, among other things, on whether the child is in vocational training. After completion of the first vocational training program, additional limits apply to regular employment: if the child works more than 20 hours a week, they are generally not counted as eligible. The Family Benefits Office checks eligibility based on information about the training and may request evidence. Child benefit and training pay are separate benefits; income from training does not change the monthly child benefit amount.
Child benefit amounts before vocational training in Germany
During vocational training, parents may receive child benefit for a child until their 25th birthday if the legal requirements are met. Since January 2026, it has been €259 per month per child and is independent of the parents' income.
Tip
Treat child benefit as support for the family, not money that is automatically paid to you. After your 18th birthday, check in good time what training evidence the Family Benefits Office needs and whether employment after your first vocational qualification affects eligibility.