Consumer advice center warns against online-wohngeld.de
The website online-wohngeld.de claims to forward applications to the relevant authorities. The Federation of German Consumer Organizations warns of rip-offs.
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The Federation of German Consumer Organizations (Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband, vzbv) is currently warning against the online-wohngeld.de service. This gives the impression that interested parties can apply for housing benefit there. This is not the case, and it also costs money, explains the vzbv.
On the website of the NRW consumer advice center, the vzbv explains that the website with "Apply for housing benefit online now" leads consumers to believe that they can apply for housing benefit there. However, it is not made clear that an invoice currently amounting to 29.99 euros has to be paid afterwards and that the application is not forwarded to a competent authority. In the end, the money is lost and those in need have not even applied for housing benefit.
Specific reasons for the vzbv's warning
"The alleged applications are forwarded to the Ministry of Construction (BMWSB) by the operator of the website, SSS-Software Special Service GmbH. According to the BMWSB, thousands of applications have already been received there by post. However, the ministry is not responsible and will not process these applications," explain the consumer advocates. The Federal Association of Consumer Advice Centers issues a specific warning because no application is submitted to the responsible housing benefit authority. The website operators claim that "informal initial applications that meet deadlines" are created. The vzbv does not share this assessment, the website does not help to meet deadlines.
In addition, the price cannot be seen in normal screen resolution, provided that potential interested parties would rather click directly on "Apply now" at the top of the page. The page then scrolls down to the entry form. The price is not mentioned near the "Order for a fee" button. There is no clear communication about what the website does for users.
The vzbv advises those in need to submit an application for housing benefit to the relevant housing benefit office in their municipality in order not to lose any more time, as housing benefit is only paid from the month in which the application is submitted. The consumer protection organizations have sent the website operators a warning letter due to inadequate information and are considering an injunction depending on their reaction. A class action lawsuit is also being examined, in which those affected can participate if it comes about.
Around two weeks ago, the NRW consumer advice center warned of an increasing number of fake stores luring victims with cheap firewood or heating oil.
(dmk)