Housing Benefit for the Unemployed

Housing Benefit while receiving Unemployment Benefit I (ALG I)

If you receive Unemployment Benefit I (from the Federal Employment Agency), you are usually entitled to housing benefit. Since ALG I is often lower than your previous salary, Housing Benefit Plus covers the housing costs and thus secures your standard of living in Duisburg.

Distinction from Citizen's Allowance (Jobcenter)

Citizen's Allowance (formerly ALG II) and housing benefit are mutually exclusive. If you already receive Citizen's Allowance, the costs of accommodation are already included. However, switching to housing benefit can be sensible if you have more money available through housing benefit and child supplement than with Citizen's Allowance.

Why housing benefit is often the better choice

Housing benefit is a priority benefit. Many households in Duisburg can avoid receiving Citizen's Allowance by combining housing benefit and other benefits (such as child supplement). This means less bureaucracy and more independence.