Illness can raise many questions for people receiving basic income support: Do I have to inform the Jobcentre? What happens if I miss an appointment? And what rules apply if a child is ill?
The Second Book of the Social Code (SGB II) sets out the rights and obligations of benefit recipients. The aim is to combine the protection of people who are ill with the necessary cooperation with the Jobcentre.
Your own illness: Proof and notification
Under Section 56 of SGB II, benefit recipients who are fit for work must immediately notify the Jobcentre of any incapacity for work and its expected duration. A certificate of incapacity for work (sick note) serves as proof that certain obligations – such as a counselling appointment or a support programme – cannot be fulfilled temporarily for health reasons.
Illness does not automatically lead to the loss of basic income support. However, it is important to inform the Jobcentre in good time.
Missed appointment at the Jobcentre
Anyone who is unable to attend an agreed appointment should report this as soon as possible and arrange a new appointment. An unexcused absence may lead to a reduction in benefits under Section 32 of SGB II if there is no valid reason.
If your child is ill
A child’s illness can also be a valid reason for missing an appointment at the Jobcentre. Parents should inform the Jobcentre immediately and, where necessary, provide a medical certificate from the paediatrician confirming the need for care.
There is no fixed age limit that automatically determines whether the absence will be accepted. The decisive factors are the child’s specific illness, the care required and timely notification of the Jobcentre.
Data protection is ensured
The Jobcentre is generally not entitled to the exact medical diagnosis. Health data is classified as particularly sensitive personal information. As a rule, only the necessary details regarding the duration of the absence are required.
Further information:
https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/grundsicherung/termin-jobcenter
https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/sgb_2/__56.html
https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/sgb_2/__32.html
https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/arbeitslosengeld/das-muessen-sie-beachten/krankheit-pflege-betreuung
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