Introduction
Citizens' Benefit (Bürgergeld) secures the subsistence minimum for jobseekers and people with low income. The exact amount depends on your specific life situation.
Our Detailed Online Calculator helps you estimate your entitlement, taking into account income, housing costs, and family circumstances.
Note: For a detailed overview of payout dates and standard rates, see Payment Dates & Rates 2026.
Citizens' Benefit Calculator/Estimator
The Citizens' Benefit (Bürgergeld) is intended to secure the livelihood of people who are able to work but are unemployed or whose income is not sufficient. Use our calculator to estimate your entitlement for 2024, 2025, or 2026.
Understanding the Calculation
Housing Costs & Waiting Period
In the first year of receiving benefits (Waiting Period / Karenzzeit), the Jobcenter covers the actual cold rent and service charges, even if they are slightly above the local limit. Only heating costs are checked for reasonableness from the start.
Income Allowances (Freibeträge)
Work always pays off! A portion of your earned income is not counted against your benefit. This is why we need both your Gross and Net income (learn more: How is Net Salary calculated from Gross?):
- Gross Income determines your Tax-Free Allowance (Freibetrag) — the amount legally protected from deduction.
- Net Income helps us determine your actual available funds.
The Calculation:
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Tax-Free Allowance (Freibetrag):
- 100 € Basic Allowance (always free).
- 20% free for gross income between 100€ and 520€.
- 30% free for gross income between 520€ and 1,000€.
- 10% free for gross income between 1,000€ and 1,200€ (1,500€ with child).
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Countable Earned Income:
The portion of your earned income that remains after applying the legally defined tax-free allowance (Freibetrag). The allowance is calculated based on your gross income and deducted from your gross earned income, while your net income helps determine your actual available funds.
Child Benefit (Kindergeld)
Child benefit is fully counted as income for the child and deducted from the amount paid by the Jobcenter. Our calculator handles this automatically.
This calculator provides estimates only. Actual benefit amounts are determined by your local Jobcenter based on your specific circumstances and official documentation. Always consult with your Jobcenter for binding information.