Mother from Neumünster angry: Working forbidden? Citizens' money causes controversy!

Mother from Neumünster angry: Working forbidden? Citizens' money causes controversy!

In a current episode of “Poor Germany – Stamp or toil?” On RTLZWEI, single mother Felicitas, who others simply call Feeli, shed light on the challenges she faces as a citizen's benefit recipient. In the program, which caused a lot of discussion, the 28-year-old from Neumünster describes how she lives with her five-year-old son Lenox on a monthly citizen's allowance of 572 euros. Despite signing several employment contracts, she was unable to find a stable job.

One of the central points that is discussed in the program is the advice that Feli's supervisor, a specialist from social-educational family assistance, gives her: "You shouldn't work, it could worsen your situation." This comment is met with outrage by many viewers because it sheds light on the complex reality of many single parents who not only have to look after their children, but also have to contend with job center bureaucracy.

The worries of a single parent

Lenox developed severe mental health problems during a burglary and suffers from severe anxiety, meaning he requires constant care. Feeli has already applied for a hospital place for her son, but it is currently not available. This is a typical example of the challenges many single parents face. According to Section 10 SGB II, the work can be unreasonable if the upbringing or care of the child is at risk. Such legal frameworks are often crucial when it comes to deciding whether you can accept a job or not.

The emotional debate over citizens' money is often dominated by extreme cases presented in programs like this one. However, it is important to note that such representations do not reflect the reality of all recipients of civil benefit. Many actually face far-reaching structural problems, such as the lack of availability of therapy places or the bureaucracy of job centers.

Financial basics for single parents

Citizens' allowance for single parents is calculated according to fixed rules. The standard rate of 563 euros for the mother, plus the corresponding standard rate for the child, comes into play. Additional needs are also taken into account, depending on the number of children living with her. On average, a single mother in Germany receives around 1,500 euros in citizen's benefit per month, depending on individual living conditions and local housing costs. The costs for accommodation are also covered by the job center as long as they are reasonable, which can vary in large cities such as Berlin or Hamburg.

An example: A single mother in Hamburg with a five-year-old child receives a total of around 1,621.39 euros per month. The calculation takes into account both the standard rate for the mother and the child, as well as additional benefits. Such financial help is crucial in order to cope with everyday life, as the costs for accommodation and care are often high.

The future of citizens' money

Major changes to citizens' money in Germany are planned from 2026. The debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the current regulations will certainly become more intense. While the fundamental discussion continues, many single mothers like Feeli are faced with the challenge of balancing caring for their children and striving for financial stability. It remains to be hoped that the reforms to citizens' money will finally address the structural problems that many are facing.

Felicitas' descriptions are more than just isolated cases - they are a look at the reality of many single parents who, despite their best efforts, are often caught in a financial and emotional dilemma. Observing the current changes, it is to be hoped that the right lessons will be learned from these experiences in order to improve the living situation of families in similar circumstances.

For further information and details on the various aspects of citizen's benefit for single parents, visit the website Mercury, buergergeld.org and unemployedselfhelp.org.