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Short answer
You can object to a Jobcenter decision within one month. It costs nothing. A short letter is enough: who you are, which decision you mean, that you object, your signature. You can send the reasons later. Since 1 July 2026, Bürgergeld has been called Grundsicherungsgeld; this does not change how objections work.
Step by step
Note the date
The deadline starts when the decision is notified. A letter sent by post usually counts as received a few days after it was sent. Count carefully and do not wait until the last day.
Write the objection
Give your name, your Jobcenter number (BG-Nummer), the date of the decision and write: “Hiermit lege ich Widerspruch gegen den Bescheid vom … ein.” Sign the letter.
Submit it correctly
Send the objection by post, hand it in and get a receipt, or use jobcenter.digital. A normal email is usually not enough.
Send reasons and evidence
Explain what is wrong and attach evidence, such as your tenancy agreement, payslip or bank statements. Send evidence as early as possible.
Act quickly if benefits are cut
An objection often does not stop a cut immediately. If you do not have enough money to live on, an urgent application to the Social Court may be needed. Talk to us right away.
Documents you need
- The decision you are objecting to
- Your Jobcenter number (BG-Nummer)
- Evidence showing what is wrong
- A copy of your objection and proof of sending or handing it in
Deadlines and costs
Deadline: one month from notification of the decision (section 84 Social Courts Act).
If the instructions on legal remedies are missing or wrong, a longer deadline of one year usually applies.
Costs: objections are free. The Jobcenter decides with an objection decision (Widerspruchsbescheid).
Common pitfalls
- Missed the deadline – a request for review (Überprüfungsantrag) may still be possible
- You do not understand the decision – we explain it in your language
- Objection sent only by email – usually not valid, also submit it by post or jobcenter.digital
- Benefits cut because of a missed appointment – explain the reasons for your absence right away