Temporary extension of eligibility period for unemployment benefits – extension to be automatically approved

Today, on 15 May 2020, the Upper and Lower Houses of the German Parliament discussed and passed a second welfare package (Sozialschutzpaket II), including the extension of unemployment benefits. The law will be published in the Federal Law Gazette over the coming week.

15 May 2020 | Press release no.29

When the law enters into force, the eligibility period for unemployment benefits will be extended by three months. This applies to anyone whose benefits claim would otherwise expire between 1 May 2020 and 31 December 2020.

Benefits extension to be automatically approved

Unemployment benefits will be automatically extended for anyone affected by the legislative change. They will not have to make any arrangements themselves.

If you are still eligible to receive unemployment benefits under the new law, you will receive a letter to confirm the approved extension of your benefits claim. You will not have to re-register with the Agentur für Arbeit.

You will not even have to take action if your entitlement to unemployment benefits has expired since 1 May 2020 and you have already applied for benefits from the Jobcenter or are receiving benefits in accordance with the Second Book of the German Social Security Code (SGB II); the Jobcenter and Agentur für Arbeit will settle the benefits between themselves.