CDU general secretary Carsten Linnemann says the upcoming Bürgergeld reform is only the first step and is calling for additional legislation to tighten the system.
In an interview with Bild am Sonntag, Linnemann warned that “more laws must follow” once the Bürgergeld is replaced by a new basic security scheme.
He especially wants to overhaul the earnings‑supplement rules, arguing that people who work only five to ten hours a week and top up with Bürgergeld are exploiting the system. He proposes that any income from part‑time work be fully deducted from the benefit, removing the current allowance of the first €100 and the subsequent 80 % deduction.
Linnemann also rejected the SPD’s demand for new social contributions on rental and capital income, saying two‑thirds of the population already save privately for retirement and pay the solidarity and withholding taxes. He argued that taxing capital returns would erode planning certainty and fuel political disengagement.
Instead, he called for a gradual reduction of social contributions back toward 40 % to keep the system sustainable. He also advocated for a noticeable cut in income tax, suggesting that the top‑rate threshold be raised from €68 000 to €80 000 to ease the burden on the middle class.
The Federal Ministry of Labor estimates that the reform could cut expenditures by €850 million, provided that 100 000 people currently receiving basic security find work. The legislation is currently under review in parliamentary committees and is expected to be largely enacted by 1 July 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What changes does Carsten Linnemann propose for the Bürgergeld’s earnings rules?
He suggests that income from part‑time work be fully counted against the benefit, eliminating the current €100 exemption and the 80 % deduction that follows.
How does Linnemann view the SPD’s proposal for new social contributions on rent and capital income?
He rejects it, arguing that two‑thirds of people already save privately for retirement and pay existing taxes, and that additional taxes on capital would undermine planning security.
What is the estimated financial impact of the Bürgergeld reform according to the Federal Labor Ministry?
The ministry calculates a potential reduction of €850 million in expenditures, assuming 100 000 recipients move from basic security to employment.
How might these proposed changes reshape the balance between social support and work incentives in Germany?
