Lawsuit Against a Job Center/Citizen's Income Decision
A lawsuit filed in social security court against a decision by the Job Center, health insurance provider, long-term care insurance provider, or pension insurance provider following an unsuccessful appeal.
How to proceed
- 1
Wait for the decision on the appeal
A lawsuit may be filed only after the appeal process has been completed.
- 2
File a lawsuit with the Social Security Court
Lawsuits filed in social security court are free of court costs for insured individuals.
- 3
Proceedings and Judgment
A medical opinion is often sought.
Required documents
- Notice of AppealMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 9 months
Official: max. approx. 12 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • The deadline for filing a lawsuit (1 month after service of the notice of objection) has passed
- • Medical records not submitted (in cases involving pension or disability claims)
Common reasons for rejection
- • One-month deadline for filing a lawsuit has been missed
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals whose appeal against a decision regarding social benefits has been denied.
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. 9 months
Success rate
approx. 40.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The deadline for filing a lawsuit (1 month after service of the notice of objection) has passed
- •Medical records not submitted (in cases involving pension or disability claims)
Common reasons for rejection
- •One-month deadline for filing a lawsuit has been missed
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Questions & Answers
Does filing a lawsuit in social court cost anything?▼
Proceedings before the Social Security Court are free of court costs for insured persons and benefit recipients.