Bürgergeld 2026: Calculate Your Entitlement Under the New Grundsicherung
Germany's Bürgergeld system, which replaced Hartz IV in 2023, provides basic income support to over 5.5 million people. With the 2026 reforms creating the 'Neue Grundsicherung,' benefit rates and income allowances are changing. Calculate your exact entitlement based on household size, rent, and income.
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Monthly Bürgergeld Entitlement
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Based on your household type, and housing costs. Earned income reduces the benefit via Freibeträge.
For educational and informational purposes only. Verify with a qualified professional.
Introduction: Bürgergeld and the Neue Grundsicherung
Bürgergeld replaced Hartz IV in January 2023 as Germany's basic income support. Over 5.5 million people receive it. Key rates in 2024/2025: single adult €563/month (Regelbedarf Stufe 1), couples €506 each (Stufe 2), children 14–17 €471, 6–13 €390, 0–5 €357. Housing costs (Kosten der Unterkunft) are paid separately. The 2026 reforms create the \'Neue Grundsicherung.'
📋 Key Takeaways
- • Regelbedarf covers basic living needs; rates vary by household size
- • Housing (rent + heating) is paid separately up to local limits
- • Freibeträge allow earned income: first €100 exempt, then graduated brackets
- • Net benefit = Total need − countable income; negative means not eligible
💡 Did You Know?
5.5M+ recipients — Bürgergeld supports millions across Germany
€100 fully exempt — First €100 of earned income is never counted
Karenzzeit — 2-year asset protection for new recipients
Replaced Hartz IV — Higher rates and less punitive sanctions
KdU — Kosten der Unterkunft paid separately from Regelbedarf
Neue Grundsicherung — 2026 reforms consolidate the system
How Does Bürgergeld Work?
Regelbedarf covers food, clothing, personal care, and household items. Kosten der Unterkunft (KdU) — rent plus heating — is paid separately. Freibeträge allow you to keep part of earned income: first €100 exempt, then 20% of €100–€520, 30% of €520–€1,000, 10% of €1,000–€1,200. Above €1,200, income is fully counted.
🎯 Expert Tips
📊 Benefit by Household Type
| Type | Regelbedarf (€/month) |
|---|---|
| Single | 563 |
| Couple (each) | 506 |
| Child 14–17 | 471 |
| Child 6–13 | 390 |
| Child 0–5 | 357 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bürgergeld and how does it differ from Hartz IV?
Bürgergeld replaced Hartz IV in January 2023 as Germany's basic income support. Key changes include higher Regelbedarf rates (€563/month for single adults in 2024), more generous Freibeträge for earned income, and a two-year Karenzzeit protecting assets from being counted.
How are housing costs (Kosten der Unterkunft) handled in Bürgergeld?
Housing costs (warm rent including heating) are paid separately from the Regelbedarf. The Jobcenter covers actual rent up to reasonable local limits (Angemessenheitsgrenzen) that vary by city size and region. Excess rent may require approval.
What are the Freibeträge for earned income under Bürgergeld?
The first €100 of earned income is fully exempt. Then: 20% exempt on €100-€520, 30% of €520-€1,000, and 10% of €1,000-€1,200. Above €1,200 gross earned income, benefits phase out more quickly.
Who qualifies for Bürgergeld in Germany?
German residents, EU citizens, and recognized refugees who are needful, able to work (or temporarily unable), and meet income and asset thresholds. You must be registered as job-seeking or have a valid reason.
What is the Karenzzeit (grace period) for assets?
For the first two years of Bürgergeld receipt, certain assets are protected (Schonvermögen). This includes reasonable savings for emergencies, pension contributions, and assets needed for self-employment. After 2 years, standard asset limits apply.
How does the 2026 Neue Grundsicherung reform affect Bürgergeld?
The 2026 reforms consolidate and rename the system to 'Neue Grundsicherung.' Benefit rates may be adjusted, and rules around sanctions and integration are being reformed. Current rates remain valid until official 2026 updates.
📈 Key Statistics
📚 Sources
- • BMAS — Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziales
- • Bundesagentur für Arbeit — Jobcenter and benefit administration
- • SGB II — Sozialgesetzbuch Zweites Buch (Grundsicherung für Arbeitsuchende)
- • Regelbedarfsstufen — Official rates from BMAS
⚠️ Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates only. Actual entitlement depends on your Jobcenter, local rent limits, and individual circumstances. Housing limits (Angemessenheitsgrenzen) vary by region. Consult your local Jobcenter or a legal advisor for personalized guidance.
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