Benefits to secure a person's livelihood, known as subsistence benefits, are divided between SGB II and SGB XII. Persons capable of work and their dependants receive benefits under SGB II. A person is capable of earning if they can work at least 3 hours a day under the usual conditions of the general labor market. Persons who are temporarily unable to work receive benefits in accordance with SGB XII. The pension insurance provider determines the ability to work.

If the husband/wife or partner receives benefits under SGB II, there is no entitlement to benefits under SGB XII. An application under SGB II must then be submitted to the Jobcenter.

Assistance with living expenses under SGB XII is granted if the necessary means of subsistence cannot be provided or cannot be provided sufficiently from one's own resources and means, in particular income and assets.

From 1.1.2024, the following standard needs levels apply

Standard needs level 1

Adult person who lives in an apartment and for whom standard needs level 2 does not apply: 563 euros

Standard needs level 2

Adult person living in a home with a spouse or partner or in a partnership similar to a marriage or partnership: 506 euros

Standard needs level 3

Adult person living in an inpatient facility: 451 euros

Standard needs level 4

Adolescents from the age of 15 to the age of 18: 471 euros

Standard needs level 5

Children from the age of 7 to the age of 14: 390 euros

Standard needs level 6

Children up to the age of 6: 357 euros

If necessary, additional needs may be granted, which must be applied for and justified on a case-by-case basis. Furthermore, reasonable costs for accommodation and heating are paid if required.