Waiting for a Kindergeld decision can be frustrating. In 2026, many international families in Germany face months of silence. However, silence doesn’t mean your application was rejected—it means you need to take action.
1. Why is the Familienkasse not responding?
The office is overwhelmed, but it also operates on a specific priority system:
- Priority for Repayments: Cases involving Kindergeld refunds, tax fraud investigations, or rejections are handled first because they protect or recover state funds.
- Payouts are Secondary: Your request for payment is often at the bottom of the pile, especially if it requires coordination with other EU countries.
2. How long should you wait?
According to internal guidelines, the Familienkasse aims to respond within 8 weeks. You should track this carefully. If you haven’t received anything after two months, you should start the formal reminder process.
3. Step One: Professional Reminder (Sachstandsanfrage)
If more than 12 weeks have passed, send a Sachstandsanfrage (Status Inquiry).
- Write, Don’t Call: Phone calls leave no paper trail. In the German legal system, if it’s not on paper, it didn’t happen.
- Format: Include your Kindergeldnummer, original application date, and a list of submitted documents.
- Delivery: Always send it via Registered Mail with Return Receipt (Einschreiben mit Rückschein). This is your primary evidence for court.
4. Legal Action: The Untätigkeitsklage (§ 75 FGO)
If you have received no decision for 6 months, you can file an “Action for Failure to Act” (Untätigkeitsklage) under § 75 of the Financial Court Code (FGO).
- Effect: In 90% of cases, once the court notifies the Familienkasse, they issue a decision within weeks to avoid a trial. You do not strictly need a lawyer for this initial step.
FAQ
- Can I use email? It is not recommended. For legal proof and data privacy, traditional mail is the gold standard.
- What if I moved? Always report a change of address immediately. If mail is returned twice, your case will be suspended.