Your job is protected: from the notification (at most 8 weeks before the start) until the leave ends, dismissal needs approval from a state authority — which is almost never granted. Estimate the money side with the Elterngeld calculator.
Elternzeit: Entitlement and Planning
Up to 3 years per child and parent, together or in turns. Up to 24 months can be shifted to when the child is 3 to 8.
✓ 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 split my 3 years into two blocks: one year now, two at the child school start. Up to 24 months shift to age 3–8, and the employer cannot refuse the transfer.
👩🏼💼
Lea recommends:
Do not confuse Elterngeld and Elternzeit: one is money (max 14 months for both), the other is job-protected leave (up to 3 years). Calculate the money with our tool before applying.
Useful Tools
- Familienportal des Bundes family
Federal family portal: child benefit, parental leave and support around childbirth.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I have two jobs — Elternzeit at both? ▾
Yes, the right exists per employment separately. Notify each employer in writing and on time independently.
Can the father take Elternzeit at the same time as the mother? ▾
Yes, both parents can be on Elternzeit simultaneously, up to 3 years each. The partner months of Elterngeld specifically encourage both taking part.
Can I work during Elternzeit? ▾
Yes, up to 32 hours per week. In companies with 15+ employees the employer can refuse part-time work only for compelling operational reasons.
Is Elternzeit the same as Elterngeld? ▾
No. Elternzeit is job-protected leave; Elterngeld is the state benefit, applied for separately at the Elterngeldstelle.