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Emergency

Bürgergeld cut: benefit reduction for a breach of duty

The job center can reduce Bürgergeld if duties are breached, for example if an appointment is missed or reasonable cooperation is refused. The reductions are, however, graduated and tied to conditions. You can take action against a cut.

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Your chances of getting your money back

In case of reporting failures or breaches of duty, Bürgergeld can be reduced, graduated by levels and limited in time (§§ 31a, 31b, 32 SGB II). The costs of accommodation remain especially protected.
A reduction requires a proper instruction on the legal consequences and the absence of an important reason. If an important reason existed or the instruction is missing, the cut is often unlawful.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Check the notice

    Look into which breach of duty is alleged and how high the reduction is.

  2. 2

    2. Check for an important reason

    Clarify whether you had an important reason (illness, care duties, access problems).

  3. 3

    3. Review the instruction

    Check whether a concrete instruction on the legal consequences was provided.

  4. 4

    4. File an objection

    File an objection within one month and justify it.

How to spot the scam

  • A concrete instruction on the legal consequences was missing.
  • An important reason (e.g. illness) is not taken into account.
  • The one-month deadline for the objection is running out.

Frequently asked questions

How much may the job center cut Bürgergeld?

The reductions are graduated and limited in time (§§ 31a, 31b SGB II). For reporting failures and breaches of duty, different levels apply. The costs of accommodation and heating are especially protected and are usually not cut.

When is a cut unlawful?

Among other things, if no proper instruction on the legal consequences was given or if an important reason for the behavior existed, such as illness, childcare, or an unreachable invitation. Then you can take action against the reduction with an objection.

How do I defend myself against the cut?

With an objection within one month of receipt of the notice. Describe the important reason and enclose evidence. If the objection is unsuccessful, a lawsuit at the social court is possible; there the procedure is generally free of charge.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.