Buy I car while receiving benefits from Job Center (Bürgergeld)

Hi! From what I know, yes – you must inform the Jobcenter if you buy a car while receiving Bürgergeld, since it counts as an asset. Cars are allowed, but their value should not be excessive (usually up to around €10,000-15,000 is considered reasonable for personal use). The Jobcenter can ask for proof of the purchase price (e.g. contract, bank transfer). When filling out the Weiterbewilligungsantrag, you should list the car honestly to avoid problems later.

Official info (in German):
👉 Bundesagentur für Arbeit – Vermögen beim Bürgergeld

Hope this helps!

Anna, volunteer

Hello,
thank you for your question.

Yes, in the continued benefits application (Weiterbewilligungsantrag) you are required to report any changes in your situation, including the purchase of a car.

Note: A car is usually not counted as an asset if it is considered appropriate. In most cases, this means that its resale value (not the original purchase price), minus any outstanding loans, does not exceed €15,000. In that case, the car has no impact on your benefits.

In some situations, a more expensive car may also be accepted as appropriate, for example, if several people live in the household and a larger vehicle is needed.

When filling out the application, simply state the purpose of the car and its estimated resale value. The Jobcenter may ask for documents if necessary.

Official information (in German) can be found here:
https://www.bmas.de/DE/Arbeit/Grundsicherung-Buergergeld/Leistungen-und-Bedarfe-im-Buergergeld/einkommen-und-vermoegen.html

Best regards