File a lawsuit with the Social Security Court
Appeals against decisions by social security agencies (Job Center, Pension Insurance, Health Insurance) filed with the Social Court—free of charge for the plaintiff.
How to proceed
- 1
File an appeal and await the decision on the appeal
A mandatory preliminary step before filing a lawsuit.
- 2
File a lawsuit within one month
In writing or for the record at the Social Court.
- 3
Public hearing
The court schedules a hearing; settlement is often sought.
Required documents
- Notice of RejectionMandatory
- 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. 1 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Appeal proceedings not yet concluded
- • Failure to meet the one-month deadline for filing a lawsuit
Common reasons for rejection
- • The deadline for filing a lawsuit has passed
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Insured persons or beneficiaries whose appeals have 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. 45.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Appeal proceedings not yet concluded
- •Failure to meet the one-month deadline for filing a lawsuit
Common reasons for rejection
- •The deadline for filing a lawsuit has passed
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 the Social Security Court charge a fee?▼
No, the procedure is free of charge for individuals.