Apply for guardianship compensation

If you are a guardian, you may be eligible for compensation under certain conditions. Further information can be found here.

Detailed description

Guardianship is generally a voluntary and unpaid position. This means you will not normally receive any compensation for your work. However, you can be reimbursed for your expenses. In exceptional cases, the family court may, upon your request, grant reasonable compensation.



If you act as a professional guardian, your remuneration is governed by the Guardianship and Care Remuneration Act. This applies in particular if you

  • take on more than ten guardianships at the same time or
  • if the guardianship requires at least 20 hours per week.

If your ward is destitute, you will receive payment from the state treasury.


The standard rate is 26 euros per hour.


If you have special qualifications, the hourly rate increases to

  • 33 euros for completed apprenticeship or comparable training
  • 44 euros with a university degree or comparable qualification.

In rare cases, the court may grant you a higher hourly rate if the guardianship is particularly difficult and the ward is not destitute.

 

Information

Prerequisites

They have been appointed as guardian(s) by the family court.

Documents required

  • Informal application for compensation
  • Evidence

Please note

The local court does not provide legal advice. Please contact a qualified professional, such as a lawyer or notary public.


If you have limited financial resources, you can obtain advice from the Public Legal Information Office (ÖRA).

Deadlines

You must assert your claim for payment of an expense allowance (for voluntary guardianship) no later than 6 months after the end of the year in which the claim arose.


You must assert your claim for remuneration (for professional guardianship) no later than 15 months after it arises.

Procedure

  • You submit your application for compensation and attach the required supporting documents.
  • If necessary, explain why a higher salary is justified in your case.
  • The family court will review your application and request further documents from you if necessary.
  • If you successfully complete the exam, you will receive approval for your remuneration.
  • Your compensation will be paid to you.

Processing time

Processing is usually done promptly.

Fees

No

Legal remedies

Complaint

Legal basis

Section 3 of the Guardianship and Care Remuneration Act (VBVG)


https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/vbvg_2023/__3.html


Section 1808 of the German Civil Code (BGB)


https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/bgb/__1808.html


Section 1878 of the German Civil Code (BGB)


https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/bgb/__1878.html

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Keywords: money for guardianship salary for guardian guardian's salary

Last updated: 11.04.2026