Rent debts and the threat of losing your home
Who is this help intended for?
The support is aimed at anyone who finds themselves in a financially difficult situation, especially if
- a termination,
- an action for eviction,
- a judgment of eviction
- or an eviction date are available.
Additional advisory services can also be used as a precautionary measure in order to recognize impending rent debts at an early stage and take countermeasures. We recommend using advice services even if there is currently no "emergency".
Prerequisites for utilization
The following requirements must be met in order to receive assistance:
- A completed application, signed by all adult persons in the household,
- Submission of personal documents, rental agreement, letter of termination or other relevant documents,
- Proof of income, assets and current rent payments.
The best way to find out the specific procedure and all the information you need is in person and online.
Next steps
If you are affected by this issue, you can contact the City of Cologne's specialist "Housing" department, for example. It not only offers individual advice, but also provides referrals to other offers of help and cooperation partners in the area of social support. Further information can be found in the info box below.
Directly to the source:
Social welfare office - "Housing" specialist unit
Frequently asked questions about rent arrears
Who is this help intended for?
The support is aimed at anyone who finds themselves in a financially difficult situation, especially if
- a termination,
- an action for eviction,
- a judgment of eviction
- or an eviction date are available.
Additional advisory services can also be used as a precautionary measure in order to recognize impending rent debts at an early stage and take countermeasures. We recommend using advice services even if there is currently no "emergency".
Prerequisites for utilization
The following requirements must be met in order to receive assistance:
- A completed application, signed by all adult persons in the household,
- Submission of personal documents, rental agreement, letter of termination or other relevant documents,
- Proof of income, assets and current rent payments.
The best way to find out the specific procedure and all the information you need is in person and online.
Next steps
If you are affected by this issue, you can contact the City of Cologne's specialist "Housing" department, for example. It not only offers individual advice, but also provides referrals to other offers of help and cooperation partners in the area of social support. Further information can be found in the info box below.
Directly to the source:
Social welfare office - "Housing" specialist unit
Frequently asked questions about rent arrears
Changes to the Housing Benefit Act since 2023
Since 2023, in addition to the basic amount Additional support for heating costs and ecological home improvements, which expands the group of eligible persons.
Summary
Housing benefit offers significant financial relief for Cologne residents on low to medium incomes. It helps to cover housing costs and provides greater housing security. Check your eligibility and take the opportunity to receive this important support.
We have compiled all the important addresses for you here.
INFOBOX - Good sources in Cologne:
Social welfare office - Housing department - Prevention
Tel: 0221 / 221-31888
Email: sozialamt.fachstellewohnen@stadt-koeln.de
Address:
Ottmar-Pohl-Platz 1
51103 Cologne
Opening hours:
By appointment only.
Helpful pages on the subject of rent and rent debts
Frequently asked questions - Rent
