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Financial assistance for recipients of the basic income who take up paid employment or self-employment (Section 16b of Book II of the Social Code).
How to proceed
- 1
Submit an application to the Job Center
Before starting work, with an employment contract or business plan.
- 2
Review by the Job Center
Assessment of employment and eligibility for funding.
- 3
Approval and Payment
A wage subsidy for up to 24 months, on a sliding scale.
Required documents
- Employment contract or business planMandatory
Proof of the intended employment.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 2 weeks
Official: max. approx. 3 weeks
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted only after starting work
- • Employment contract not attached
Common reasons for rejection
- • Employment has already begun without a prior application
- • Number of hours below the minimum threshold
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Recipients of the citizen's income who begin employment subject to social insurance contributions or self-employment.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 2 weeks
Success rate
approx. 72.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted only after starting work
- •Employment contract not attached
Common reasons for rejection
- •Employment has already begun without a prior application
- •Number of hours below the minimum threshold
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.