How to change bank details for Kindergeld payout

ByThiago SF

When you receive Kindergeld in Germany, the money is paid directly into your registered bank account each month.

If you change your bank account, it is extremely important to inform the Familienkasse (the agency responsible for Kindergeld) as soon as possible.

Failing to update your information may result in missed or delayed payments, which can be stressful for families relying on this benefit.

This guide will explain step-by-step how to update your bank details safely and efficiently.

Why You Must Notify Changes Immediately ⚠️

Under § 68(1) of the German Income Tax Act (EStG), you are legally required to notify the Familienkasse of any changes that affect your Kindergeld payments, including changes to your bank account (Bankverbindung).

If you don’t update your details:

  • Payments may continue to go to your old account, causing delays.
  • If the old account is closed, the payment may bounce back to the Familienkasse, leading to processing delays.
  • In some cases, incorrect or outdated information can temporarily suspend payments until the issue is resolved.

Ways to Change Your Bank Details 🔄

There are three main ways to notify the Familienkasse of your new bank information:

1. Online via eServices Portal 🌐 (Fastest method)

The eServices portal allows you to change your bank details digitally.

Steps:

  1. Go to www.arbeitsagentur.de/familie-und-kinder
  2. Log in with your tax identification number (Steuer-ID) and personal credentials.
  3. Select Bank Details Change (Bankverbindung ändern).
  4. Enter your new IBAN, BIC, and the account holder’s name.
  5. Submit the form and save the confirmation.

💡 Tip: You will receive a confirmation message in the portal once the update is processed.

2. Submit the KG 45 Form by Mail or Email ✉️

If you prefer to update your details offline, you can use the official Veränderungsmitteilung KG 45 form.

  • Download the form here: KG 45 PDF
  • Fill out all sections carefully, including:
    • Your Kindergeldnummer
    • Personal identification details
    • New bank account information (IBAN, BIC, name)

Submission options:

  • Mail the completed form to your regional Familienkasse office.
  • Some offices also accept forms by email or fax — check with your local branch.

3. By Phone ☎️ (For urgent cases only)

In some cases, you can call the Familienkasse hotline to update your bank details verbally.

  • Germany free number: 0800 4 5555 30
  • International callers: +49 911 12031010

Requirements:

  • Provide your Kindergeldnummer and personal verification details.
  • The agent may ask you to confirm the change later in writing or online.

When the Change Takes Effect ⏳

  • If you notify the Familienkasse early in the month, the change will usually take effect for the next scheduled payment.
  • If you send the update too close to the payment date, the current month may still be deposited into the old account.
  • The new bank details will then be used for the following month.

📌 Processing time:
Expect 3–10 business days for the change to be fully processed, depending on the submission method.

Tracking Your Update 🔍

To confirm that your new bank details have been accepted:

  • Log in to the eServices portal and check under Bank Details (Bankverbindung).
  • If you submitted a form by mail, wait for a confirmation letter from the Familienkasse.
  • If a payment is missing or sent to the wrong account, contact the hotline immediately.

Special Cases and Problems 🛠️

  • Old account closed:
    If your previous account is already closed, the payment will return to the Familienkasse.
    You must call support and provide proof of your new account immediately.
  • Joint accounts:
    If switching to a joint account, include both names as account holders to avoid rejections.
  • International bank accounts:
    Kindergeld can only be transferred to SEPA-compatible accounts. If your new account is outside the SEPA zone, you must provide a German or SEPA-compliant account.

Contact Information 📞

  • Familienkasse Hotline (Germany): 0800 4 5555 30
  • International Phone: +49 911 12031010
  • Official Website: www.arbeitsagentur.de

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions ❓

1. How long does it take for the new bank details to be updated?
Typically 3–10 business days, depending on the method used.

2. What happens if I don’t update my account information?
Payments may be delayed or returned to the Familienkasse.

3. Can I update my details over the phone?
Yes, but you may be required to confirm the change in writing later.

4. Can I use someone else’s bank account for my Kindergeld payments?
Only if you are listed as a joint account holder.

5. How can I confirm that the update was successful?
Check the eServices portal or wait for a confirmation letter from the Familienkasse.

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