Detailed description
Guardianship is generally carried out on a voluntary basis, i.e. without payment. However, voluntary guardians are entitled to have their expenses reimbursed.
This means that you can claim back the money you spent while exercising guardianship. This reimbursement will be made from the assets of the ward - this is the name given to the minor child who is under your guardianship.
If you are responsible for the ward's assets, you can take the reimbursement directly from the assets under management. In all other cases, the court decides on the amount you are entitled to. If the ward is destitute, the state treasury covers the costs.
Examples of reimbursable expenses:
- travel costs
- Costs for appropriate insurance (for example, liability insurance for damages that could arise from the guardianship)
- Costs of living and education if the ward lives in your household
If you do not want to settle your expenses individually, you can apply for a flat-rate expense allowance instead. This amounts to 425 euros per year (as of 2025). The first payment will be made one year after you are appointed as a guardian.
The flat-rate compensation only applies to guardians who work on a voluntary basis. Youth welfare offices or associations cannot make this claim.