How to stop Kindergeld payments

ByThiago SF

The Kindergeld program provides essential financial support to families in Germany, but there are situations where you must stop the payments.

If you no longer meet the eligibility requirements, it is your legal responsibility to notify the Familienkasse so that payments can be stopped correctly.

Failing to do so may lead to overpayments, which must be repaid, and in some cases, legal penalties.

This guide explains when to stop Kindergeld, how to notify the authorities, and what happens if you don’t take action.

When You Need to Stop Kindergeld ⚠️

Kindergeld is only paid while certain conditions are met.

If any of the following situations apply, you must stop the payments immediately:

  • Child reaches the age limit:
    • Standard eligibility ends when the child turns 18.
    • Payments can continue up to 25 if the child is in school, university, or vocational training — but end when these activities stop.
  • Child moves abroad permanently:
    If your child lives outside Germany and does not meet special EU/EEA rules, the benefit must end.
  • Family moves abroad or changes tax residence:
    If you or your spouse are no longer taxable residents in Germany, you may no longer qualify for Kindergeld.
  • Marriage or change in custody:
    A change in legal guardianship or marital status may affect who receives the benefit.
  • Employment status changes:
    If your child starts full-time employment, payments may stop depending on income levels and tax rules.

📌 Note:
Even if you are unsure whether the change affects your eligibility, you must report it to the Familienkasse and let them decide.

Your Legal Duty to Notify (Mitteilungspflicht) 📝

According to § 68 of the German Income Tax Act (EStG), you are legally required to report any change in circumstances that affects your entitlement to Kindergeld.

Failure to notify:

  • May result in repayment of all overpaid amounts (Rückforderungen).
  • Can lead to administrative penalties or, in severe cases, criminal charges for benefit fraud.

How to Stop Kindergeld Payments 🔄

You must formally notify the Familienkasse that you wish to stop payments.

There are three main ways to do this:

1. Online Notification via eServices Portal 🌐 (Fastest Method)

The Familienkasse eServices portal allows you to submit the change digitally.

Steps:

  1. Go to Familienkasse eServices.
  2. Log in using your Steuer-ID (tax ID) and personal credentials.
  3. Select Changes to Kindergeld (Kindergeld Veränderungen melden).
  4. Enter details of the situation (e.g., child moved abroad, turned 18, etc.).
  5. Submit and save the confirmation for your records.

2. By Mail Using Form KG 45 ✉️

If you prefer to submit a written request, use the official Veränderungsmitteilung KG 45 form.

  • Download the form here: KG 45 PDF
  • Fill out:
    • Kindergeldnummer
    • Your personal information
    • Reason for stopping the payments
    • Effective date of the change

Send the completed form by registered mail (Einschreiben) to your regional Familienkasse.

3. In Person or by Phone ☎️

  • Germany free hotline: 0800 4 5555 30
  • International calls: +49 911 12031010
  • Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (CET)

The Familienkasse may ask you to confirm your request in writing even after a phone call.

When the Stoppage Becomes Effective ⏳

  • Payments will stop from the month following your notification if submitted on time.
  • If you report late, you may still receive payments for months you were no longer eligible, and you will have to repay the excess amount.
  • Always notify as soon as possible to avoid complications.

Consequences of Not Stopping Kindergeld 🚨

  • Repayment of overpaid amounts:
    You will be billed for every euro received after you lost eligibility.
  • Fines or penalties:
    Serious cases of intentional non-reporting may result in legal action and fines.
  • Delayed processing for future benefits:
    Unresolved issues with Kindergeld can affect other applications for family or tax benefits.

Contact and Support 📞

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

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions ❓

1. Do I need to stop payments when my child turns 18?
Yes, unless they are in school or vocational training. You must submit proof to continue payments up to age 25.

2. How quickly will payments stop after I notify the Familienkasse?
Usually from the next month, depending on when the notification is processed.

3. Can I stop payments online?
Yes, through the eServices portal, which is the fastest option.

4. What happens if I don’t report a change?
You will have to repay all overpayments, and there may be penalties.

5. Can payments be resumed later if eligibility returns?
Yes, but you will need to submit a new application with updated documents.

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