Apply for electric car funding: step-by-step guide
Short answer
Electric car funding 2026 is aimed at private households with low and middle incomes. New electric cars are funded, as are plug-in hybrids and range extenders subject to conditions. The application should be submitted online. The Federal Government has announced that the funding is intended to apply retrospectively from January 2026.
The order is important: first check eligibility, then document the vehicle and contract properly, then submit the application with complete evidence.
To the electric car funding overview →
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Step 1: Check eligibility
First check whether you generally fall within the target group. Under the published key points, household income is what counts. The threshold is 80.000 Euro gross per household. For children, the threshold rises by 5.000 Euro per child, up to a maximum of 90.000 Euro.
Private buyers are eligible for funding. Funding may also be available for leasing if the contract meets the requirements.
Check funding status →
Step 2: Clarify the vehicle type
Fully electric cars are the main case. Plug-in hybrids and range extenders may only be eligible subject to additional conditions. The decisive factor is the vehicle’s technical data, not the model’s sales designation.
Clarify before signing the contract:
- Is it a new vehicle?
- Is it a fully electric car, a plug-in hybrid or a range extender?
- Is the technical evidence clearly stated in the offer or contract?
- Is the contract in the name of the person who is to apply?
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Step 3: Document the contract and registration properly
Keep the purchase or leasing contract in full. Make sure the contract date, vehicle details, vehicle identification number and price are clearly legible. Proof of registration is also required for the application.
If the portal permits retrospective applications, the evidence is particularly important. It must then remain clear when the vehicle was purchased or registered.
Step 4: Prepare the online application
A secure form of identification is often required for digital applications. Therefore, prepare your BundID, online ID card or another required login early. Do not leave this until the last day.
Save documents as clearly legible PDF files. Mobile phone photos may suffice if they are complete, sharp and not cropped. For multi-page contracts, every page should be included.
Step 5: Submit the application and retain evidence
After submitting, save the confirmation of receipt, application number and uploaded documents. Check regularly whether the portal shows any queries or requests for further documents.
Processing is delayed if evidence is incomplete. Common problems include illegible scans, missing contract pages, differing names or an IBAN that does not match the applicant.
Next step: Plan home charging
Many buyers only realise after applying that the wallbox is the next bottleneck. If you want to charge at home, check the connection, parking space, landlord’s consent or WEG resolution early on.
Check wallbox funding →
Find a provider
If you are preparing to buy, lease or install a wallbox, compare more than just the vehicle price. Also consider delivery time, funding documents, registration assistance and wallbox coordination.