An equalizing beam for receiving formwork elements, in particular formwork panels, having an outer beam having a support surface facing upwards when applied and a base surface facing downwards when applied, and at least one inner beam having an additional support surface facing upwards when applied and an additional base surface facing downwards when applied. The equalizing beam further includes at least one immobilizing element. The outer beam has a recess running in its longitudinal direction for receiving the inner beam and the inner beam is movably mounted in the recess of the outer beam. The immobilizing element is provided to secure the position of the inner beam relative to the outer beam. A ceiling formwork system including at least one equalizing beam and at least two supports which are arranged essentially at a right angle to the equalizing beam.