Refugees seeking protection in Germany who are unable to support themselves are entitled to benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act.

Benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act can generally take the form of

• Benefits in kind,
• cash,
• vouchers
• and recently also in the form of a payment card.

card.

The benefits to which refugees are entitled under the law are credited to the payment card. A corresponding amendment to the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act came into force on May 16, 2024.

The Free State of Bavaria has decided to introduce a uniform payment card system throughout Bavaria for those entitled to benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act. This is intended to replace cash benefits as far as possible.

The respective local benefit authorities are responsible for the introduction and administration of the payment card. In Erlangen, this is the social welfare office. The city of Erlangen is acting in a delegated area of responsibility and is subject to the regulations of the Free State of Bavaria.

The Erlangen Social Welfare Office has already issued the payment card to all those affected. The introduction process in Erlangen is therefore largely complete.

The payment card can be used - like an EC card - to purchase everyday goods such as

• Food,
• clothing,
• hygiene articles and
• communication

can be paid for. The cards can generally be used throughout Germany. If the residence permit of the person concerned contains a restriction on residence, the area of use of the payment card is also restricted.

Each payment card is assigned an IBAN number. This means that the payment card can also be used to make transfers and direct debits. A list of recipients is stored by the payment card provider for this purpose. These include

• Electricity providers,
• telephone providers,
• fitness studios or
• lawyers.

In individual cases, those affected can enquire at the social welfare office whether an account number has been activated for a bank transfer. They can also apply for the relevant account details to be activated for a bank transfer or direct debit.

The card can be used to withdraw €50 per person per month in cash from ATMs or at the till in stores.

Those affected who have questions about their benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act and their payment card can make an appointment by telephone at the Social Welfare Office. You can find the contact details of the case workers under this article.