What is a WBS (Wohnberechtigungsschein) in Berlin?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein — WBS for short — is an official certificate confirming that your household is entitled to rent a publicly subsidised apartment (a Sozialwohnung) in Berlin. Without a valid WBS you can’t apply for those apartments — but they’re noticeably cheaper than the private market, so if you qualify it’s well worth getting.
Who can get a WBS?
You can apply if you
- are of legal age,
- live in Berlin or plan to move here, and
- stay below the relevant income limit with your household income.
The limit depends on your household size and the WBS level; allowances (e.g. for children or employment) lower your countable income.
The WBS levels: 100, 140, 160, 180, 220
Since 2025 Berlin has five levels. The number shows how far your income may exceed the statutory base limit:
| Level | Income over base limit | Typically for |
|---|---|---|
| WBS 100 | up to the base limit | classic social housing |
| WBS 140 | + 40 % | |
| WBS 160 | + 60 % | subsidised new-builds |
| WBS 180 | + 80 % | more new-builds, co-op shares |
| WBS 220 | + 120 % | middle incomes — new since 2025 |
The higher the level, the more apartments you can apply for. WBS 220 targets middle incomes and doesn’t apply to the classic social-housing stock, but to newer subsidy models.
How high is the income limit?
The limit applies not to your gross salary but to your countable annual income: from the income of all household members, flat deductions (up to 10% each for tax, health and pension insurance — so up to 30%) plus allowances are subtracted. Your actual salary can therefore be well above the limit.
It rises with household size and WBS level. Example for level WBS 140 (official figures from the State of Berlin):
| Household | Countable annual income (WBS 140) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | €16,800 |
| 2 people | €25,200 |
| each additional person | + €5,740 |
| per child | + €700 |
For WBS 160, 180 and 220 the limits are higher. Check whether you qualify with the official WBS calculator from the State of Berlin.
Cost & validity
- Cost: issuing the WBS is free of charge.
- Validity: usually 12 months — then reapply.
How to apply for a WBS
You apply online directly with the State of Berlin, or in writing at the citizens’ / housing office (Bürger- bzw. Wohnungsamt) of your borough. You’ll usually need proof of income, ID and details of your household size.
→ Apply for a WBS at Service BerlinFrequently asked questions
What is a WBS in Berlin?
A Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is an official certificate confirming your household is entitled to rent a state-subsidised apartment (Sozialwohnung) in Berlin. Without a valid WBS you cannot apply for those apartments.
Who can get a WBS?
Anyone who is of legal age, lives in Berlin or plans to move there, and whose household income stays below the relevant limit. The limit depends on household size and WBS level, and allowances (e.g. for children or employment) reduce your countable income.
How much can you earn and still get a WBS?
The limit applies to your countable annual income, not your gross salary: flat deductions of up to 10% each for tax, health and pension insurance (up to 30%) plus allowances are subtracted first — so your actual salary can be noticeably higher than the limit. For WBS 140, the countable limit is €16,800 for one person and €25,200 for two, with higher limits for WBS 160/180/220.
How much does a WBS cost and how long is it valid?
Issuing a WBS is free of charge, and it is usually valid for 12 months, after which you reapply.
Do I need a WBS to rent in Berlin?
Only for state-subsidised apartments from Berlin’s municipal housing companies. Private-market listings do not require one — but a WBS unlocks a segment of cheaper apartments if you qualify.
Got a WBS? Now be first to apply
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Start free →Sources: State of Berlin — Wohnberechtigungsschein · Service Berlin — apply for a WBS. Guidance only, no guarantee — the official information from the State of Berlin prevails.