Child Benefit (Kindergeld) How long does Kindergeld take?
Estimated wait
~35 days
Based on published sources
The family benefits office (Familienkasse) processes a child benefit (Kindergeld) application in about 4 to 6 weeks. Applying online is usually the fastest route, and approved payments are made retroactively from the eligible month.
More details
Processing can take longer during peak periods (for example after summer, when many school-leavers are reassessed) or in cross-border cases with a child or parent living abroad, which require extra checks.
🕒 Last updated: 28 Jun 2026