A service charge statement may result in an additional payment or a credit. Anyone receiving basic income support should submit the statement to the Jobcenter immediately and not assess themselves whether it will be covered. As a rule, only eligible housing and heating costs are recognized.
Additional payment
Submit the complete statement, the due date and the payment request. An additional payment for ancillary operating costs or reasonable heating costs may be taken into account as a need if it concerns a recognized billing period and the costs are legally owed. Household electricity is not included in housing costs. Do not pay prematurely from the standard allowance if the due date is imminent; request a decision and have receipt confirmed.
Credit
A credit from operating or heating costs may reduce the recognized housing costs in the following month. However, the Jobcenter may not automatically offset amounts that do not belong to the costs taken into account. Therefore, report the complete statement and check the amendment notice.
Checking the statement
Pay attention to the billing period, living space, advance payments and the separation of heating and household electricity. You should also contest incorrect or late statements with the landlord. The Jobcenter does not replace a civil-law review of the statement.
FAQ
Does the Jobcenter cover every additional payment? No. Reasonableness, period and type of cost are reviewed.
What happens in the case of an additional electricity payment? It is generally covered by the standard allowance, not by housing costs.
Do I have to report a credit? Yes. Concealing it may result in repayment claims.
Further guides
- Heating costs with basic income support: What does the Jobcenter cover?
- Jobcenter pays for housing: Which rent is covered?
- Jobcenter pays rent directly to the landlord: When is this possible?
Sources and note
As of: August 25, 2026. This article provides general information and does not replace individual legal advice. Local guidelines and the specific decision issued by the Jobcenter are authoritative.