Basic Security Benefit as of July 1, 2026: What's Changing with AVGS Coaching?

As of July 1, 2026, the cash benefit formerly known as "Buergergeld" is now called the Basic Security Benefit. The AVGS continues to exist. The support objective, individual case assessment, and written approval remain crucial.

Berlin, August 19, 2026 - As of July 1, 2026, the cash benefit previously known as "Buergergeld" is now called "Basic Security Allowance." This raises a practical question for job center clients: Is subsidized one-on-one coaching still possible using the Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS)?

The clear answer is: The AVGS was not abolished by the reform. However, its approval for coaching remains a case-by-case and discretionary decision.

What has changed?

The reform did not merely change the name of the benefit. The priority given to immediate placement in a job or training program has been strengthened. Qualifications and continuing education may still be utilized if they are more likely to lead to sustainable integration.

The legal options for activation and vocational integration measures under Section 45 of SGB III--including AVGS-funded coaching--also remain in place.

Decisions that have already been issued remain valid; according to the Federal Employment Agency, agreed-upon measures will continue. Since forms, decisions, and online services are being gradually updated, the term "citizen's income" may still appear during the transition period.

What remains unchanged under the AVGS?

AVGS coaching remains tied to a specific vocational support goal. The criteria on the voucher, the accreditation of the provider and the program, as well as the review by the responsible integration specialist, are decisive. There is no general legal entitlement to AVGS coaching.

The sequence of events is also important: Coaching may begin only after written approval has been granted. Once the approval notice has been issued, participants incur no program costs for the approved program.

How can the need for coaching be clearly demonstrated?

It is helpful to provide a specific rationale rather than a general request for coaching. This includes a realistic career goal, the current obstacle, and an explanation of how the individual coaching is expected to help.

This could include, for example, a viable career change, adjusting job application strategies, preparing for a change in industry, or transitioning toward self-employment.

"The new program name does not change the fact that career integration must be considered on an individual basis. Effective coaching is beneficial when it addresses a specific obstacle and opens up a clear path to employment or self-employment," explains Andr? Voltz, Managing Director of AVOCONS GmbH.

AVGS-Coaching.de helps interested individuals structure their coaching needs, find a suitable program, and prepare the necessary documents for coordination with the Jobcenter. The decision on funding is made exclusively by the responsible agency.

About AVOCONS GmbH

AVGS-Coaching.de is a service offered by AVOCONS GmbH. The company supports people nationwide and online with AZAV-certified individual coaching sessions in accordance with Section 45 of SGB III. The network includes more than 200 experts from various industries and language regions.

The focus ranges from career orientation, job applications, and digitalization to coaching for skilled workers, migrants, and those starting a business. AVOCONS was awarded first place in the Startup Coaching category at the German Education Award 2025/2026.

Participants incur no program costs, subject to prior written approval from the Employment Agency or Job Center.

AVOCONS GmbH
Friedrichstrasse 171
10117 Berlin

presse@avocons.de

AVOCONS GmbH supports people on their path to new career prospects--with individualized, practical support eligible for funding through the AVGS. The focus is on flexible coaching services that are specifically tailored to different life situations and career goals. In addition to one-on-one counseling, AVOCONS also develops strategic concepts for sustainable professional development and offers companies support in the areas of digitalization, human resources development, and organizational consulting.

This release was published on openPR.