Overview

• Germany’s labour ministry confirmed no adjustment to Bürgergeld on January 1, 2026, marking a second consecutive zero increase under the statutory formula.
• The monthly rate remains 563 euros for single adults and 357–471 euros for children, with a cabinet decision on the required ordinance reported for September 10 and no Bundestag vote needed.
• Minister Bärbel Bas announced stricter penalties for unexcused missed Jobcenter appointments alongside closer case management to strengthen labour-market activation.
• The government is drafting a broader overhaul in two parts, with some elements designed to bypass Bundesrat approval and plans to shift future calculations to a Statistisches Bundesamt needs-based basket.
• Reactions split parties and groups, with the CDU calling the freeze a correct signal and the Left and welfare associations warning of hardship; about 5.5 million people receive Bürgergeld and, according to reports, asylum-seeker benefits will rise by 14 euros to 455 euros in 2026.