- Thousands of citizens' money households pay on housing costs
For rent and heating costs, many recipients of basic security benefits have to reach into their own pockets, despite state support, because their apartment is considered not appropriate. In Thuringia last year, this affected 11.2 percent of households receiving basic security and recognized housing costs, as shown in the response of the Federal Government to an inquiry by the Left group in the Bundestag.
On average per year, this concerned 6,501 households in Thuringia. Around 90 euros had to be paid out of pocket monthly, for example from the regular needs allowance or savings. This accounted for around 18 percent of the total housing costs. Nationwide, around 320,000 basic security households were affected. They had to pay an average of 103 euros out of pocket each month.
From 58 euros to 190 euros
In Thuringia, there were significant differences in the average monthly additional payments required, depending on the region. These were particularly high in the Saalfeld-Rudolstadt district, at almost 190 euros. In Weimar, they were around 138 euros, and in Erfurt, they were just under 114 euros. In contrast, those affected in the Hildburghausen district had to pay around 58 euros, and in the Kyffhäuser district, around 62 euros for rent and heating.
Housing gap: When the state considers the home inappropriate
In principle, housing costs, i.e., rent and heating costs, for basic security recipients should be covered by the state. However, this only applies if they are considered appropriate. For this, rent and apartment size may not exceed certain regionally defined limit values. Those living in an oversized apartment are asked to move or, for example, to sublet a room.
Social associations criticize that the set rent limits are often unrealistic. Often, those affected have no chance of finding a cheaper apartment. They have to pay increasingly higher amounts - and the money is then lacking for food, clothing, and education. "Those who can still get an apartment in inner cities with basic security have to pay extra and save it from their mouths," said the Left MP Caren Lay to the German Press Agency.
The Federal Government acknowledged that 11.2% of households in Thuringia receiving basic security benefits and recognized housing costs had to cover additional rental and heating expenses, amounting to an average of 90 euros each month. Nationwide, this issue affected around 320,000 basic security households, requiring an average of 103 euros additional payments monthly.
Despite the Federal government's responsibility to cover housing costs for basic security recipients, many individuals face difficulties in finding suitable apartments within the defined limit values, resulting in additional financial pressures.
