Secure your entitlement to €130
Citizen’s Allowance & Budget Buddy Backpack
Did you know...
that as a recipient of basic income benefits (Grundsicherung) you are entitled to a one-off payment for school equipment for your child (e.g. backpack, sports equipment, pens and pencils)? Currently, this subsidy amounts to a payment of €130 on 1 August (start of the school year) and €65 on 1 February (2nd half of the school year). Many parents are unaware of this support.
We will show you how to get this support and what to look for when buying a backpack!
Legal text (§ 28 para. 3 of Social Security Code III (SGB)):
“Educational needs include […] an amount for personal school equipment on 1 August and 1 February of each year, the amount of which will be determined in accordance with § 34, para. 3 of the Twelfth Book of the Social Security Code.”
How do I receive the €130 from the Job Centre?
Payments are handled in very different ways: Please contact your Job Centre if you do not automatically receive the €130 into your account.
Handy hint! Contact your Job Centre if you are unsure of what to do.
It’s easy to do:

Secure your subsidy
Ask at your Job Centre for support for school equipment. Currently, you are entitled to €130 on 1 August for a backpack and a further €65 on 1 February for your child’s personal school needs.

Checking receipt of the payment
Your Job Centre will either transfer the payment directly to you or you will need to apply and will then receive the money into your account once your application has been checked.

Buying a backpack
Use the €130 to buy an ergonomic backpack that will help to protect your child’s health. Backpacks should sit perfectly so that the weight of the full backpack does not put more strain on your child than can be avoided.
To your Budget Buddy Backpack
How to choose the right backpack!
A good backpack is crucial for the health of your child.
Pay attention to the following:

Ergonomics
The bag should rest properly on your child’s back and have height-adjustable straps.

Weight
A lightweight bag will protect your child’s back.

Security
Reflectors will ensure that your child is also seen in the dark.

Straps
Good padding, child-friendly locks and a chest strap
Handy hint: Backpack retailers offer comprehensive advice about the ergonomic requirements of a child-friendly backpack on their online platforms. Pay particular attention to ergonomic models when you come to buy!
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