Offices for social assistance across Germany

For first contact, the Jobcenter asks for valid identity papers and, where relevant, a valid residence permit. Ask which forms and financial/household evidence apply. You can also apply online. When dropping off documents, use the designated letterbox, write the Bedarfsgemeinschaft number on the envelope if already assigned and avoid originals. Keep your customer number and relevant letters ready for telephone enquiries. Since 1 July 2026, SGB (German Social Code) II cash support is called Grundsicherungsgeld. You may still see the older name Bürgergeld on some forms and letters. Existing decisions remain valid; do not submit a new claim solely because the benefit was renamed. Official forms and online services may still show the old name during the transition. Continue to follow your own renewal dates, evidence requests and change-reporting duties.

For first contact, the Jobcenter asks for valid identity papers and, where relevant, a valid residence permit. Ask which forms and financial/household evidence apply. You can also apply online. When dropping off documents, use the designated letterbox, write the Bedarfsgemeinschaft number on the envelope if already assigned and avoid originals. Keep your customer number and relevant letters ready for telephone enquiries. Since 1 July 2026, SGB (German Social Code) II cash support is called Grundsicherungsgeld. You may still see the older name Bürgergeld on some forms and letters. Existing decisions remain valid; do not submit a new claim solely because the benefit was renamed. Official forms and online services may still show the old name during the transition. Continue to follow your own renewal dates, evidence requests and change-reporting duties.

Complete and sign the application truthfully and provide the relevant annexes. The local list includes identity, health insurance, rent/property costs, pensions/income and assets, and statements from all accounts for the last three months; income evidence is normally requested for six months. Other proofs depend on family, maintenance and additional needs. Ask what applies if a document is unavailable. Submit by the official online route, post or agreed local drop-off; for sensitive email documents use the secure method explained on the authority’s site.