Turning 18 with a disability in Germany: What changes legally?

In Germany, young people legally become adults at the age of 18 – including those with disabilities. This transition affects legal representation, financial support and the role of parents. This guide provides a concise overview of what changes under German law at adulthood and which aspects families should review early.

In brief: Legal adulthood at 18 in Germany

At 18, people in Germany become legally adult – including those with disabilities.
Parental legal authority ends automatically.
Guardianship is not automatic and must be limited to necessary areas.
Financial support arrangements may need to be reviewed.

What changes at 18 in Germany? Frequently asked questions

A young woman with Down syndrome sits at a table with a woman who is older than her and looks at a laptop.

Turning 18 can bring new legal and practical questions – for young people with disabilities and their families. © Cliff Booth / Pexels

What does turning 18 legally mean in Germany?

At the age of 18, a person in Germany becomes legally adult. From this point onward, they are generally responsible for their own decisions and actions. This includes entering into contracts and managing personal affairs independently. This applies equally to people with disabilities. Legal adulthood does not depend on a person’s health condition.

Does parental authority automatically end at 18?

Yes. When a young person turns 18, parental authority under German law – known in Germany as "Sorgerecht" – ends automatically. Parents can no longer automatically represent their child in legal matters – even if a disability is present. From this point forward, the adult individual is legally responsible for their own affairs unless a court orders otherwise.

Is legal guardianship automatically required?

No. Legal guardianship under German law – called "rechtliche Betreuung" in Germany – is not automatic.

Under German law, guardianship is only considered if an adult is unable to manage their own affairs due to a disability. Even then, it must be limited to the specific areas where support is necessary, such as financial or health-related decisions.

German guardianship law emphasises support over substitution. Assistance by a guardian should, whenever possible, enable the person to make their own decisions rather than replace them.

What should families review regarding financial support?

Reaching legal adulthood may affect eligibility for certain social benefits in Germany. In some cases, independent claims to social assistance can arise at the age of 18, particularly in situations involving permanent disability.

Families should review existing benefit arrangements and clarify potential entitlements early. The specific rules depend on German social law and the individual situation.

Legal context

This article refers exclusively to the legal situation in Germany. Legal frameworks and social benefit systems vary significantly between countries.

The information is based on legal insights provided by Katja Kruse, Head of Legal Affairs at the German Association for People with Physical and Multiple Disabilities (bvkm)

Nadine Lormis smiles in to the camera; Copyright: Victoria Emanuel

Author: Nadine Lormis | REHACARE eMag

Nadine Lormis has been writing about (digital) developments in the assistive technology sector, self-determined living and inclusion for over 15 years. As editorial director of the REHACARE eMag, she is closely networked with the community of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses – both professionally and personally.

Originally published on: February 19, 2026
Last updated on: March 03, 2026