Can I, as an EU citizen, receive social benefits in Germany?
February 26, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Friedhelm Schröter
Dear lawyer,
I am Bernd Dietrich, an EU citizen who has been living in Germany for several years. I work here as a freelance translator and have not had any problems supporting myself so far. However, I have recently been experiencing health issues that make it difficult for me to carry out my work and secure my income. Due to these health limitations, I am looking for possible social benefits that could help improve my financial situation.
I have heard that under certain conditions, EU citizens in Germany may be eligible for social benefits. Since I am not familiar with this matter, I am unsure if I, as an EU citizen, am actually entitled to receive social benefits in Germany. My concerns and fears about my financial future have prompted me to reach out to you and seek advice.
Could you please explain to me if I, as an EU citizen in Germany, can apply for and receive social benefits? If so, what steps would I need to take to receive assistance? Are there specific conditions that I must meet in order to receive social benefits? I would greatly appreciate it if you could assist me with this matter.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Bernd Dietrich
Dear Mr. Dietrich,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise in the field of social security law. As an EU citizen living and working in Germany, you generally have the opportunity to apply for and receive social benefits under certain conditions. It is important to understand that the social security system in Germany is complex and includes various benefits that can be accessed depending on individual circumstances.
As a freelance translator who is experiencing health problems and having difficulties making a living, you may be eligible for benefits from statutory health insurance, statutory pension insurance, and social assistance.
In order to receive social benefits in Germany, you usually need to undergo a needs assessment. This assessment aims to determine whether, due to your health restrictions, you are unable to support yourself financially. Income, assets, and other personal circumstances are taken into account during this assessment.
As an EU citizen, you are generally entitled to the same social benefits as German citizens, as long as you are legally residing in Germany and have your habitual residence here. However, it is important to note that the specific requirements and conditions for receiving social benefits may vary depending on the type of benefit.
To take concrete steps towards applying for social benefits, I recommend contacting the relevant authority or health insurance company first. There, you can receive information about the various benefits that may be available to you, as well as assistance with the application process.
I hope that this information is helpful to you and supports you in your situation. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Friedhelm Schröter
Attorney specializing in social security law
