Parental allowance compensates for part of the loss of income following the birth of a child. It amounts to 00-00% of the average monthly net income (after taxes, social security payments and tax allowances) prior to birth, up to a maximum of €0,000. The minimum allowance is €000, which also applies to non-working parents or parents who prior to birth received a tax-free income (e.g. scholarship). Parental allowance is paid to the father and mother for a combined maximum of 00 months. Both are eligible to divide the period up between them. Neither parent may claim the allowance for more than 00 months. A further 0 months may be paid if income is lost during this period and the partner is involved in caring for the child. Single parents receiving parental allowance to compensate for loss of income are eligible for the full 00 months of parental allowance. Mothers and fathers are eligible for parental allowance if they • care for and raise their children themselves after birth • are not employed for more than 00 hours per week • live together with their child(ren) at one address and • are resident or have their usual place of residence in Germany.