Germany disability law: The 2-km rule is not a rigid limit

In Germany, the so-called ‘2-km rule’ is not a rigid guideline for determining disability status, despite common public perception. Legal experts clarify that this rule primarily concerns the ‘G’ marker (Merkzeichen G), which indicates a significant impairment of mobility in road traffic, rather than the Degree of Disability (GdB) itself.

While the Federal Social Court (Bundessozialgericht) uses a distance of approximately 2 km covered in 30 minutes as a standard local travel distance, courts evaluate cases individually. Decisions depend on whether movement can be managed reliably and safely, considering factors such as pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or disorientation. The ‘G’ marker can be granted even if the GdB is below 50.

Additionally, for individuals with care level 2 (Pflegegrad 2), specific financial supports are available. This includes monthly care allowances (Pflegegeld) of 347 euros, care benefits in kind (Pflegesachleistungen) of up to 796 euros per month, and a monthly relief amount (Entlastungsbetrag) of 131 euros.