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Short answer
Letters from the Jobcenter almost always include a deadline. First read at the top what kind of letter it is, then by when you need to act. The most common: an invitation to an appointment, a request to send documents, a hearing (Anhörung) and decisions about your money. Since 1 July 2026, missed appointments have stricter consequences, so always respond.
Step by step
Invitation to an appointment
Attend the appointment or cancel in advance if you have an important reason, for example illness with a doctor’s note. If you miss it without an important reason: the first time there are initially no consequences; from the second time, your money is cut by 30 percent for one month.
Request to send documents
The Jobcenter needs proof, such as bank statements or your tenancy agreement. Send it by the deadline. If it is missing, the Jobcenter can refuse or stop payments. If you do not have something, write and say so before the deadline.
Hearing (Anhörung)
The Jobcenter wants to change something or reclaim money and gives you the chance to comment first. Reply by the deadline and explain your side.
Decision about your money
Approval or change decision: check the period, people, rent and income. If something is wrong, you can object within one month.
Repayment demand (Aufhebungs- und Erstattungsbescheid)
The Jobcenter is reclaiming money. Check carefully whether this is correct and object within one month if there are errors. Talk to us before you pay or agree to instalments.
Documents you need
- The letter with all pages
- Your Jobcenter number (BG-Nummer)
- The documents requested, as copies, not originals
- Proof of sending or handing in your reply
Deadlines and costs
Deadlines: every letter states a deadline. You can object to decisions within one month.
Since 1 July 2026: from the second appointment missed without an important reason, Grundsicherungsgeld is cut by 30 percent for one month. If you miss three in a row, you can lose your entitlement entirely because you cannot be reached, including housing costs.
Costs: replies and objections are free.
Common pitfalls
- Opened the letter late – still check the deadline and respond immediately
- Ill on the day of the appointment – let them know in advance and send a doctor’s note
- Did not report a move – letters do not arrive, report your new address immediately
- Documents missing – write before the deadline explaining what is missing and why