Bürgergeld — Social Welfare

What is it?

Bürgergeld (formerly Hartz IV / ALG II) is basic social security for unemployed people or those with very low incomes.

How much? (2025)

PLUS: Housing costs (rent + heating) — in "reasonable" amount.

Who can receive it?

• You are 15-67 years old
• You can work (min. 3 hours daily)
• You live in Germany
• You have insufficient money to live on
• Foreigners: you must have residence permit allowing Bürgergeld

Who will NOT receive it?

• People with tourist visa
• First 3 months after arrival (EU citizens)
• Students (they have BAföG)
• Pensioners (they have Grundsicherung im Alter)

How to apply?

1. Where: Jobcenter in your city
2. Form: Hauptantrag + attachments

Documents:

• ID/passport
• Anmeldung
• Rental agreement + rent confirmation
• Bank statements (3 months)
• Employment termination letter (if applicable)
• Aufenthaltstitel (foreigners)

What you must do?

• Search for work (documented!)
• Attend Jobcenter appointments
• Participate in training/courses
• Accept "reasonable" job offers

Sanctions

For non-attendance or refusing work:
- 1st time: -10% for one month
- 2nd time: -20%
- 3rd time: -30%

Bürgergeld and work

You can earn extra:
- First €100 — no deductions
- €100-520 — you keep 20%
- €520-1000 — you keep 30%
- Above €1000 — you keep 10%

Warning for foreigners!

⚠️ Receiving Bürgergeld may affect:
- Visa extension
- Application for Niederlassungserlaubnis
- Application for citizenship

Consult with Ausländerbehörde or a lawyer!