German court rules Jobcenter must fund moves for disabled citizens

A state social court has ruled that Jobcenters must cover relocation costs for citizens receiving benefits if their current housing becomes unsuitable due to physical disabilities. The decision follows a case involving a person with a 60% degree of disability who lived in a third-floor apartment without an elevator. While the apartment remained technically habitable, the individual's deteriorating health made navigating stairs a significant danger.

Under § 22 Paragraph 6 of the SGB II, Jobcenters can cover housing procurement and moving costs if a move is deemed necessary due to health reasons or unreasonable living conditions. The ruling emphasizes that formal habitability is not the sole metric; the actual usability of a home must be assessed based on the specific health conditions of the individual.

Legal experts note that for those with specific disability markers, such as 'G' (significant impairment of mobility), an individual assessment is required. To ensure coverage, applicants are advised to obtain written assurance from the Jobcenter before signing new rental agreements to avoid disputes over prior consent.