Benefits for Ukrainians in Germany: reasons why benefits may be reduced

Social benefits in Germany are a significant help for Ukrainians seeking temporary protection. However, receiving them requires compliance with the established rules. Find out what violations can lead to a reduction in benefits

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Ukrainians who have been granted temporary protection in Germany are entitled to social assistance — financial support that covers basic needs and helps them adapt to their new circumstances. However, the amount of these benefits may be significantly reduced or even suspended entirely if the established rules are violated. And following the reform approved by the German government on April 22, 2026, these rules have become significantly stricter. The relevant law was published in the Federal Gazette.

A New Name and a New Logic: From Bürgergeld to Grundsicherungsgeld

The first noticeable change is terminological. The term “Bürgergeld” (citizen’s allowance) is officially being replaced by “Grundsicherungsgeld” (basic security allowance). Until the end of 2026, authorities may still use the old term, but it will gradually disappear from official documents.

But what matters more than the name is the logic: the reform reinforces the principle of a swift return to the labor market. Now, employment is the priority for social integration, while benefits are merely a supplementary means of basic support, not an end in themselves. These rules also apply to Ukrainians receiving assistance under the SGB II (Grundsicherung) system.

If you are unsure how the new regulations affect your specific situation, it is worth consulting an immigration lawyer. On the Visit Ukraine platform, you can reach out to specialists who help Ukrainians navigate social and immigration issues in Germany.

The amount of basic assistance in Germany in 2026

The estimated amount of the basic benefit (Regelbedarf) for a single person is 563 euros per month. In general, the amounts depend on age and family status:

● 563 euros — for single people, single parents, or adults with minor partners;

● €506 — for adult partners in a couple;

● €451 — for young people aged 15 to 24 living on their own;

● €471 — for children aged 14 to 17;

● €390 — for children aged 6 to 13;

● €357 — for children under 6 years old.

These payments cover living expenses, food, and basic needs. However, receiving them is now directly tied to fulfilling a number of obligations — and the consequences for violating them have become stricter.

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Under what circumstances can payments be canceled or reduced?

The most significant change, which took effect on April 23, 2026, is the possibility of a full temporary suspension of the basic portion of benefits (Regelbedarf). The Jobcenter may offer a person of working age a job that it considers suitable (zumutbar) and “immediately available.” If the person refuses without a valid reason, the agency has the right to suspend the basic benefit for a period of one to two months.

This is a fundamental difference from the previous rules, which only involved gradual percentage reductions. Now, the Jobcenter has a tool to immediately cancel 100% of the basic portion of benefits.

An important detail: the Jobcenter will continue to cover rent and heating costs even in the event of sanctions—but the money will be paid directly to the landlord so that the person does not lose their housing due to debt.

Sanction scale: from 10% to full suspension

The overall sanction system after the reform looks like this. For refusing to participate in integration courses, job offers, or employment programs, benefits are reduced:

● by 10% — for the first violation;

● by 20% — for the second;

● by 30% — for the third.

The reduction applies for one to three months depending on the number of violations. If a person refuses a job offer or training twice within a year, benefits may be reduced for up to two months. If a year has passed between violations, previous reductions are not taken into account.

The new regulation adds another level to this: if violations become systematic, basic benefits may be suspended entirely for 1–2 months.

It is also worth noting another new provision: if a person fails to appear at the Jobcenter three times in a row without a valid reason, they may be deemed “unreachable for the labor market” (Unerreichbarkeit). This automatically suspends the right to benefits.

Read also: Sanctions for Bürgergeld in Germany are increasing — how much will payments be reduced, and what will change starting in July 2026?

What is considered “suitable work,” and what are the exceptions?

A job is considered suitable if it matches a person’s physical and mental capabilities. Refusing it without consequences is only possible in specific cases:

● if performing the job poses a threat to physical or mental health;

● if it is impossible to arrange care for children or sick relatives.

In the second case, local authorities are obligated to ensure priority access to daycare centers and schools for the children of such parents.

The “priority of placement” principle and checks for the self-employed

The reform also enshrines the principle of “priority of placement” (Vermittlungsvorrang): job search or enrollment in training now takes absolute precedence over receiving benefits. Those capable of working are required to accept full-time employment if this would allow them to completely end their dependence on social benefits.

For self-employed individuals, a mandatory review is introduced one year after receiving benefits: the Jobcenter will assess whether transitioning to salaried employment would be a more effective means of support.

How to avoid a reduction or suspension of benefits?

To avoid a situation where benefits are reduced or suspended, it is worth following a few practical rules. First, attend integration courses — this is not only a mandatory requirement but also a real opportunity to learn the language and adapt more quickly. Second, do not ignore job offers: if you encounter legitimate difficulties, discuss them with Jobcenter representatives in advance, not after the fact following a refusal.

Third, be sure to attend all scheduled appointments with the Jobcenter — three missed visits without valid reasons could cost you your entitlement to benefits. Fourth, immediately notify the center of any changes — a change of residence, starting a job, or a change in marital status.

If your situation is unusual — due to illness, disability, childcare, or a complex migration history—it’s best to consult with a specialist in advance. On the Visit Ukraine platform, you can contact an immigration lawyer who understands the specific rules for Ukrainians in Germany and can help you avoid costly mistakes.

We remind you! After March 4, 2027, Ukrainians in Germany will lose their status. Read how to regularize your status, what options remain, and how not to lose your right to residence.

Photo: aileenchik / Freepik

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