Even during the summer holidays, many children are getting ready for the start of the new school year together with their parents – this often places a considerable financial burden on families.
Pupils from low-income families who attend a general or vocational school, do not receive a training allowance and are under 25 years of age are entitled to benefits under the so-called Education and Participation Package.
In total, eligible children receive 195 euros per school year. The payment is made in two fixed instalments, each at the start of a school term: on 1 August, 130 euros is paid to cover the cost of school bags, sports kit, and art and writing materials. A further 65 euros is paid on 1 February. Costs for regular school supplies such as exercise books, pencils or ink cartridges, however, must be covered independently from the monthly standard allowance.
Families who are already receiving benefits under SGB II (citizen’s income) or SGB XII (social assistance) will automatically receive the money in addition to their standard rate. A separate application is not necessary. However, the Jobcentre reminds applicants that, if required, a current school certificate must be provided. Families receiving housing benefit or the child supplement must actively apply for the school supplies allowance.
Further information, contact details and the necessary application forms are available on the Salzlandkreis Jobcentre website at www.jc.salzlandkreis.de/leistungsberechtigte/bildung-und-teilhabe/.