Do you have questions about child benefit? Do you want to know whether you are entitled to it, how to apply for support or want to report problems? If you have any questions about the topic of “child benefit” or “child allowance”, a free hotline is available.

The hotline can be reached by telephone. The correct number depends on whether you are an employer or an employee. In general, the telephone services are available Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Child benefit hotline: one number for all questions

The Federal Employment Agency has set up a central child benefit hotline through which customer advisors can provide information on individual inquiries. These are the phone numbers:

• For employees: 0800 4 5555 00
• For employers: 0800 4 5555 20
• Family fund: 0800 4 5555 30

Alternatively, you can also submit your request in writing using the form (to the form). On the page, select whether you would like to receive further help on the topic of “child benefit” or “child allowance” and then enter your text.

The application form for child benefit can also be found online (to the form).

If you have technical questions, you can also call 0800 4 5555 01. The telephones are manned Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The child benefit hotlines can be called free of charge from Germany. If you are abroad, use the number +49 911 12031010. Please note that calls outside Germany incur charges.

The Federal Employment Agency has also answered general questions asked in connection with child benefit on its website. It’s worth reading the FAQ. (To the web offer). Sometimes it is not necessary to call the hotline and there may be longer waiting times.

Child benefit: This is what you should know

The child benefit hotline is a telephone service hotline operated by the family fund. It provides a direct connection to knowledgeable staff ready to help parents with any child support-related questions. Various requests are processed here. You can get support over the phone with your application or information about the amount of payments. You can also seek advice if your life situation changes.

Parents, foster parents and adoptive parents who reside in Germany are entitled to child benefit. Although it is good to receive financial support for raising your child, the concept of child benefit also raises many questions: How long is it paid for? Is retroactive payment possible? What happens if you live abroad?

Child benefit must be applied for at the family fund. It is therefore also the place to turn to if you have any questions or problems. It is based in the employment agencies.

Alternative contact instead of the child benefit hotline

For some concerns it is helpful to discuss them in person. You can visit your local family fund in person at set visiting times. The employment agency has one Overview of family funds compiled. You can use the search function to find addresses, visiting times and fax numbers. You can also contact us by letter or fax.