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Applying for citizen's allowance for the self-employed

If you don't have enough money to cover your living expenses, you can apply for citizen's income. Here you will find additional information for self-employed individuals.

Detailed description

The basic income is a form of government support if you are unemployed or earn too little to live on. It can be used to pay for rent, food, clothing, and other necessities.



At the same time, you will receive support in your job search or further training. The goal is for you to find work again or to be able to manage your finances better. The responsible agency will help you with advice, training, or further education.



The basic income is transferred to your account every month in advance. The amount you receive depends on your age, living situation, housing costs, income and assets, and the people you live with.



If you are self-employed, there are some special considerations regarding the citizen's allowance. Generally, like other recipients of the citizen's allowance, you will receive the standard allowance to cover your living expenses. However, your income and expenses from your self-employment must also be taken into account to ensure your allowance is calculated correctly. Therefore, you will need to regularly submit proof of your income and expenses. Furthermore, you can receive support, such as consultations or training courses, to help you maintain or restructure your self-employment. The goal is to ensure your financial security through your self-employment and enable you to continue your business successfully.

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • They are self-employed.
  • They are at least 15 years old and have not yet reached the retirement age for statutory pension insurance.
  • You are capable of working. This means you could work at least 3 hours a day.
  • You are in need of assistance. This means that you cannot support yourself on your own and do not receive any money from other sources (for example, housing benefit) or individuals (for example, alimony).

Depending on the circumstances of your case, further requirements may apply. The responsible authority will inform you.

Documents required

  • Identity card or passport with current registration certificate or residence permit
  • Disability certificate or equal status certificate
  • Proof of income (for example, pay slips or benefit statements)
  • Proof of existing assets (for example, bank statements or securities)
  • Proof of ongoing expenses (for example, rental agreement or insurance documents)
  • Evidence of previous benefit receipt (approval notice, proof of benefits)
  • Proof of income from your self-employment

Please note

Since January 1, 2023, the former unemployment benefit II ("Hartz IV") or social benefit has been replaced by the citizen's income.



If you receive citizen's allowance, you must help yourself to become self-sufficient again as quickly as possible. If you miss an appointment without good reason or fail to respond to inquiries from the responsible office, your citizen's allowance may be reduced or completely revoked.

Deadlines

There is no deadline. Benefits will only be granted from the month in which you submitted the application.

Procedure

  • If necessary, contact the relevant authority in advance and discuss your request.
  • You can submit your application online or in writing to the relevant authority.
  • The responsible authority will review your application and may request missing documents or information from you.
  • The responsible authority will decide on your application and inform you of the decision in writing.

Processing time

If you are applying for citizen's income for the first time and submit all the necessary documents and information with your application, processing takes approximately 14 days.

Fees

The application process is free of charge.

Legal remedies


  • Contradiction

  • Urgent proceedings before the Social Court

  • Lawsuit before the Social Court

Legal basis

Book Two of the Social Code (SGB II)


www.gesetze-im-internet.de/sgb_2

Links on the Internet

Address and contact information

Jobcenter team.arbeit.hamburg

location for the self-employed

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Keywords: ALG II for the self-employed Hartz 4 for the self-employed ALG 2 for the self-employed citizen money

Last updated: 06.02.2026