What is the standard rate for Hartz IV recipients?
July 11, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Friedhelm Schröter
Dear lawyer,
My name is Chloé Köhler and I am currently receiving Hartz IV benefits. I have heard that the standard rate for Hartz IV recipients is regularly adjusted and I would like to know what the current rate is. I am currently receiving benefits to secure my livelihood according to the Second Book of the Social Code (SGB II) and I am unsure whether the current rate is enough to cover my monthly expenses.
I am a single parent with two children who also depend on my standard rate. I am worried about whether we can make ends meet with the current rate and if there are ways to apply for additional benefits if we are facing financial difficulties. My main concern is to ensure a safe and stable living situation for my children.
I would be very grateful if you could provide me with information on how the standard rate for Hartz IV recipients is currently determined and if there are ways to apply for additional benefits if the standard rate is not sufficient. I hope for your support and thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Chloé Köhler
Dear Mrs. Köhler,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the current standard rate for Hartz-IV recipients. As a lawyer specializing in social security law, I can provide you with information on this.
The standard rate for Hartz-IV recipients is regularly adjusted to meet the rising cost of living. As of January 1, 2021, the standard rate for single individuals is set at 446 euros per month. For single parents or single parents with at least one child under 7 years of age, the standard rate is 512 euros per month. For children aged 7 to 14, the rate is 376 euros, and for teenagers aged 15 to 17, it is 451 euros per month.
In your case, as a single mother with two children, the standard rate for you would be 1,339 euros per month. These amounts are intended to cover the cost of food, clothing, personal care, household items, household energy, personal needs of daily life, as well as participation in social and cultural activities.
If you still find it difficult to make ends meet with the standard rate, you have the option to apply for supplementary benefits. This includes benefits for education and participation, which cover the costs of school trips, school lunches, educational support, and similar expenses. Additionally, you can apply for additional benefits for accommodation and heating if your actual costs exceed the reasonable costs covered by the Jobcenter.
It is important that you get in touch with your local Jobcenter and submit an application for supplementary benefits. The staff at the Jobcenter are obligated to assist you in applying for and enforcing your entitlements.
I hope this information helps you and provides you with a better perspective on your financial situation. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Friedhelm Schröter
