Kaution is a German term that generally translates to a deposit or security bond. In different contexts, it means: 1. **Rental housing (Mietkaution):** A security deposit paid by a tenant to a landlord at the beginning of a tenancy, usually equal to up to three months' rent. It is held as a guarantee for any damages or unpaid rent. 2. **Legal proceedings (Bürgschaft / Kaution):** Bail or a financial guarantee paid to the court to ensure a defendant appears for trial. 3. **General contracts:** A financial guarantee or security lodged to ensure the fulfilment of contractual obligations.
Rental deposit in Germany: three cold rents maximum, payment in three instalments, what the landlord may keep, BGH case law and how to get your money back.
Best credit cards with airport lounge access in Germany
Seven cards compared: Amex Platinum, Deutsche Bank Platinum, HVB Visa Infinite, Revolut Ultra. Annual fees from 140 to 720 euro, free visits and guest rules.
Home savings scheme — building society savings and loan contract
How a Bausparvertrag works, how much the Wohnungsbauprämie and VL supplement are in 2026, when the contract is actually worthwhile, and how to reclaim illegal fees.
Characteristics of consumer credit in Germany
What is the maximum loan amount you can expect to get? Who will not be able to get a loan?
Myths about SCHUFA
Many residents in Germany know that once a year they can apply to receive their data free of charge. Many also suspect that such a request damages their credit score. That is not the case. The credit score is only noticeably worsened by entries such as defaults or multiple credit enquiries in a short space of time.
