Germany expands disability benefits and workplace inclusion for 2026

From 2026, people in Germany with a recognised degree of disability (GdB) of 30 or higher will receive a disability allowance of €620 and may apply for equal treatment status. The status grants special protections such as enhanced job security, workplace‑adaptation subsidies, reduced payroll taxes and access to specialised support services. Those with a GdB of 50 or more can also obtain a Schwerbehindertenausweis, which adds further benefits.

The state of Lower Saxony has launched a ten‑point plan to improve inclusion in the labour market, while overall disability‑pension payments were raised in 2024 by 7.5 %. The average monthly Erwerbsminderungsrente now stands at about €1,041, with higher earnings thresholds for pension recipients in 2026.