Cash Assistance in Germany: When Payments May Be Reduced for Ukrainians.

Ukrainian refugees who are able to work in Germany receive payments that ensure a decent standard of living compared to German citizens. However, for violations of rules, the amount of assistance may be reduced. Details about conditions and sanctions are provided on the website ukrainianingermany.de.

Violations That Reduce Payments

Ukrainians in Germany have the right to social benefits which are granted to German citizens with low incomes. These benefits, known as Bürgergeld, are provided by the Job Center (Jobcenter).

But to receive fixed payments, certain conditions must be met. If a person violates these conditions, they face a reduction in money.

For example, if a person refuses to attend integration courses, offered jobs, or employment seminars, their payments may be reduced as follows:

• 10% for 1 month for the first violation;
• 20% for 2 months for a repeat violation;
• 30% for 3 months for the third violation.

Reduction of payments is guaranteed for the first violation. But if the conditions are met, further sanctions can be avoided.

Also, if a person does not show up for an appointment at the job center on Time and without a valid reason, their assistance may be reduced by 10% per month. Total sanctions cannot exceed 30%.

If a person quits their job without a valid reason, their payments may be reduced by 30% for three months.

If a person provides false information about their assets and income, the social service may demand the return of already paid money and impose fines. Concealment of information may be considered large-scale fraud and be punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

According to statistics, in 2024, 707.8 thousand Ukrainians under temporary protection in Germany received Bürgergeld.

Here are the amounts of these payments in 2024:

• single persons / single parents - 563 euros;
• each partner in a couple - 506 euros;
• adults in institutions - 451 euros;
• teenagers aged 14-17 - 471 euros;
• children aged 6-13 - 390 euros;
• children up to 5 years old - 357 euros.For example, a family consisting of a mother and two children aged 6 and 14 receives 1424 euros. In addition, the job center provides 750-850 euros for housing rent for one person.

Let us also remind that Vice-Chancellor, Minister of Economics and Climate Protection of Germany Robert Habeck called on Ukrainian refugees living in Germany to find a job. According to him, this will be beneficial for both the integration of citizens and the social system. He also emphasized that the discussion regarding benefits and allowances for Ukrainian refugees is gaining importance before the regional elections in Saxony and Thuringia.