Bürgergeld replaces Hartz IV (Arbeitslosengeld II)

The Bürgergeld reform came into force on 1 January 2023, replacing the previous Arbeitslosengeld II ("Hartz IV") regime. Standard rate raised, asset-protection thresholds materially expanded for the first two years of receipt, and sanction rules softened. Further rate increase applied on 1 January 2024.