The government is planning to make it temporarily easier for citizens to make new applications for basic security benefits. The legislative process is now under way.
The Federal Employment Agency has launched a special page with important information
The latest information on the new regulations can be found on the website of the Federal Employment Agency (BA). All further information on basic security benefits – and the necessary applications – are available at www.arbeitsagentur.de/corona-grundsicherung.
In the coming days, a special hotline will also be set up for any questions that might arise for self-employed people, freelancers and other individuals affected by the crisis. The number will be displayed on our website.
Government plans to temporarily simplify the process
The government is planning to temporarily simplify the application process. The new rules are expected to come into force over the coming weeks.
At the current, provisional stage of the legislative process, the plan is to simplify application processes by doing away with examinations of existing assets for a six-month period in most cases. Examinations carried out to determine whether rent is reasonable will also be suspended. Therefore, customers will not have to change their residence during this period.
Who is entitled to basic security benefits?
Basic security benefits can be claimed by anyone who cannot (fully) cover their living costs with their own resources. They are entitled to standard benefits plus housing and heating costs. Unmarried persons currently receive a standard rate of 432 euros per month. The amount to which you are entitled may vary depending on the number of people living in your household and their income.
Personal living costs are assumed by the Jobcenter. Running costs, such as rent for offices or staff wages, cannot be assumed by the Jobcenter. However, it may provide loans or grants for such purposes. More information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy and the Federal Ministry of Finance.
If self-employed persons have one or more employees subject to national insurance payments, short-time working allowance may be requested for those workers. More information is available at https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/kurzarbeit.
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