Germany · Jobcenter · sanctions
Jobcenter Anhörung: how to reply so you do not lose 30% of your benefit
Short answer
Reply by the deadline in the letter and explain your good reason (wichtiger Grund) with evidence. You can ask for an in-person hearing. If a reduction decision has already arrived, file a Widerspruch within one month of receiving the Bescheid.
Got an Anhörung from the Jobcenter?
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- What the letter is and who sent it
- The reply deadline
- How serious it is and what to do
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What to do step by step
- 1
Find in the letter which breach is alleged and the reply deadline.
- 2
State the reason briefly and factually: illness, childcare without cover, a date clash, an unclear letter.
- 3
Attach evidence: a doctor’s note, confirmation from school or nursery, correspondence.
- 4
Ask for an in-person hearing if needed — the law provides for it.
- 5
If a reduction Bescheid arrives, check its date and file a Widerspruch within one month.
Important
A reduction is lifted once you meet the duty or seriously confirm in writing that you will. It is not applied where it would cause exceptional hardship (außergewöhnliche Härte).
Official sources
Checked: 2026-10-07