New stricter rules for receiving social assistance have come into force in Germany for people on basic support, including Ukrainians with temporary protection. After the reform, the authorities gained the right not only to reduce but also to fully suspend part of the payments for violations of Jobcenter requirements. This is reported by the Federal Gazette of Germany.
Changes to social assistance rules in Germany
One of the main changes is the replacement of the term Bürgergeld with Grundsicherungsgeld.
However, the key change concerns not the name, but the principles of the system's operation.
Now the German authorities place a primary focus on rapidly employing people, viewing social payments as temporary support.
The new rules also apply to Ukrainians receiving assistance under the SGB II system.
Reasons for suspending payments for Ukrainians in Germany
As of April 23, 2026, Jobcenter has the right to fully withdraw the basic portion of social assistance temporarily.
This is possible if a capable person refuses, without good reason, to:
- accept a job offer;
- attend integration courses;
- participate in employment programs;
- undergo training deemed necessary.
The suspension of basic payments can last from one to two months.
At the same time, the state will continue to cover housing rent and heating even during sanctions. In this case, the money will be transferred directly to the landlord.
What fines and restrictions will apply in Germany
After the reform, the sanction system has become significantly stricter.
The following reductions in payments are stipulated for violations:
- 10% — for the first violation;
- 20% — for the second;
- 30% — for the third.
Reductions can apply for one to three months.
If a person refuses a job offer or training twice in a year, the assistance may be cut even more severely.
Additionally, a new rule regarding "inaccessibility for the labor market" has been introduced in Germany.
If a person fails to appear at the Jobcenter three times in a row without a valid reason, they may be declared unavailable for employment, which will automatically lead to the suspension of payments.
What payments Ukrainians currently receive in Germany
In 2026, the basic social assistance in Germany amounts to:
- 563 euros — for single individuals;
- 506 euros — for adults in a couple;
- 471 euros — for children aged 14–17;
- 390 euros — for children aged 6–13;
- 357 euros — for children under 6.
These funds cover basic living expenses, food, and daily needs.
For Ukrainians in Germany, this means that after the reform, the authorities will closely monitor participation in employment and integration programs, and refusal to cooperate with Jobcenter may result in the loss of part or all of the basic assistance.