Reasons for the reduction of social assistance for citizens of Ukraine residing in Germany
Ukrainian citizens living in Germany have the opportunity to receive social assistance at the same level as local residents. However, this support is not unconditional: certain requirements must be met in order to maintain the right to benefits. In case of their violation, the amount of assistance may be reduced. What violations can lead to a reduction in payments and what consequences this can have for Ukrainian citizens in Germany.
Social assistance in Germany
Financial support is provided for Ukrainians in the form of the so-called Bürgergeld or “civilian income”. This form of assistance is similar to that received by German citizens on low incomes and is aimed at providing a minimum standard of living.
Social support is provided through the Employment Centers (Jobcenter), and, in addition to financial assistance, includes a number of measures aimed at the integration of Ukrainians into German society. These can be German language courses, employment training, and retraining programs. Attendance at these events is mandatory, and failure to meet established requirements may result in sanctions in the form of reduced benefits.
Violations that may lead to a reduction in benefits
There are several main types of violations for which the German social service can reduce or even stop benefits:
- Refusal to participate in mandatory integration programs
One of the key elements of support is the integration of Ukrainian citizens into German society. For this, mandatory attendance at German language courses, participation in adaptation and employment programs is provided. If a person refuses to participate in these programs without valid reasons, the social service has the right to reduce the amount of benefits.
For the first violation, the assistance may be reduced by 10% for a period of one month. If the violation is repeated, the amount of payments may be reduced by 20% within two months. For the third and each subsequent violation, sanctions can reach 30% for a period of up to three months.
- Refusal to accept the proposed vacancies
Citizens who receive social assistance are obliged to accept the vacancies offered to them, which correspond to their qualifications and health. Refusing to work without a valid reason can also be grounds for a reduction in benefits. Such a refusal can be seen as a reluctance to integrate into German society and the economy, which is contrary to the purpose of providing social assistance.
- Failure to attend scheduled meetings at the Employment Center
Social services regularly conduct individual consultations with beneficiaries to assess their condition, discuss employment opportunities and participation in programs. If a citizen does not show up for an appointment without a valid reason, this may be considered a breach of duty.
For such a violation, the amount of payments may be reduced by 10% every month. If non-attendance of meetings is repeated, sanctions can be increased to 30%.
- Voluntary dismissal from work
If a person on social assistance quits their job voluntarily without good reason, they may also lose some of their benefits. Such a decision is seen as a breach of social service obligations, as assistance is provided to support those who are actively looking for work or are willing to work.
- Misrepresentation or fraud
One of the most serious grounds for reducing or stopping benefits is providing false information about your assets or income. If it turns out that the recipient of the aid deliberately hid part of his property or did not indicate other sources of income, this may lead not only to a reduction in payments, but also to the requirement to return the received funds in full.
Such violations are subject to fines, and in the case of major fraud, criminal prosecution may be initiated. Deliberately withholding information can be punishable by up to five years in prison, underscoring the seriousness of Germany’s approach to compliance with welfare rules.
Therefore, Ukrainian citizens who receive social assistance in Germany should be aware that the support they receive is accompanied by certain obligations. Failure to comply with these responsibilities can lead to serious financial consequences and even criminal liability. It is important to understand that the rules established by the social services of Germany are designed not only to ensure the basic needs of the recipients of assistance, but also to stimulate them to actively integrate into society. Thus, compliance with these conditions is an important component of support and interaction between citizens and the state.
For Ukrainians who ended up in Germany as a result of the war, this can become not only a means of survival, but also an opportunity for adaptation and successful integration into a new environment. Knowing and fulfilling all the requirements will help avoid unpleasant situations and ensure stable financial support.
