CDU-Generalsekretär Carsten Linnemann has expressed dissatisfaction with the novel Grundsicherung, which will replace the Bürgergeld starting in March. Linnemann told Bild am Sonntag that further legislation will be necessary, stating, “Then more laws must follow. That is not enough.”
Linnemann aims to radically overhaul the rules regarding supplemental earnings to prevent what he sees as exploitation of the system. He stated, “There are people who work five to ten hours (per week) here and supplement with Bürgergeld.” According to Linnemann, this creates a system where social benefits are legally obtained improperly, and he believes this must end.
Linnemann proposed that individuals working only a few hours should have their entire income credited against their Bürgergeld. He argued, “Only those who work more should keep more. Today, you are allowed to keep the first 100 euros, after which 80 percent is credited – that creates incentives to work little. We need to turn that around.”
The current schwarz-rote (black-red) coalition is transitioning the Bürgergeld into a new Grundsicherung for job seekers. The Grundsicherungsgesetz is slated to take effect on July 1, 2026, following approval from the Bundestag.
Linnemann Calls for Income Tax Reform
Simultaneously, Linnemann reiterated his call for a noticeably lower income tax rate. He told Bild am Sonntag, “Deliveries must be made on income tax. I suppose we need to talk to the SPD about a reform package.”
The CDU-Generalsekretär suggested shifting the threshold for the top tax bracket upwards, stating, “I advocate that the top tax rate should not apply at a gross annual income of 68,000 euros, but only at 80,000 euros. This would flatten the middle-class bulge and provide relief.” Linnemann raised these demands regarding the top tax rate during the 2024 Bundestag election campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Grundsicherung?
The Grundsicherung is a new system for providing basic income support to job seekers, replacing the Bürgergeld as of March.
What changes to the Bürgergeld is Linnemann proposing?
Linnemann wants to radically change the rules for supplemental earnings, suggesting that income from even a few hours of work should be fully credited against Bürgergeld payments.
What is Linnemann’s position on income tax?
Linnemann is calling for a lower income tax rate and proposes raising the threshold for the top tax bracket from 68,000 euros to 80,000 euros annual gross income.
How might these proposed changes impact individuals currently receiving Bürgergeld?
