The classic trap is the form: for children born before 1 May 2025 an e-mail is legally void — you need signed paper. The second trap is the binding effect, which is why many parents notify the minimum and extend later.
Elternzeit: Notifying Your Employer
Strictly 7 weeks before the start (13 weeks for leave after the 3rd birthday). For children born before May 2025: paper with a wet signature only.
✓ Verified: 18/07/2026
WHAT TO DO
AUTHORITY
Elterngeldstelle
Municipal authorityApply for Elterngeld at your local Elterngeldstelle — depending on the state that is the Jugendamt, the district, or a dedicated office. Find yours via the Familienportal.
Where to go in your city →› Details and tips
👨🏻💻
Max recommends:
I sent the notice 8 weeks ahead by registered mail with receipt — not e-mail: a 2024 child, electronic would be void. I keep the copy with the employer receipt signature.
👩🏼💼
Lea recommends:
Notify a cautious minimum: the binding effect fixes your plan for the first 2 years, and unnotified time later needs employer goodwill. One year plus extension is safer than three at once.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Notified for 2 years — can I extend later? ▾
Within the notified period only with employer consent. So many notify the minimum (say one year) and extend: extension within the 3-year frame is your right.
Child born before May 2025 — will an e-mail notice do? ▾
No! For children before 01.05.2025 you need paper with a handwritten signature — e-mail is legally void. Born later: text form (e-mail) suffices. The most common mistake.
Does the employer have to approve it? ▾
No, parental leave is a unilateral right. Ask for written confirmation of receipt — it matters for deadlines and dismissal protection.
Can I end the leave early? ▾
Only with employer consent, except for the birth of another child or hardship. Plan your blocks conservatively.