Payment card for asylum seekers: Controversial introduction in Saxony-Anhalt!

Payment card for asylum seekers: Controversial introduction in Saxony-Anhalt!

The introduction of the new payment card for refugees in Germany, which came into force in May 2024, continues to be a topic of much conversation. This card, which shows the users' individual entitlement to benefits in accordance with the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act (AsylbLG), is intended to make the payment of social benefits more efficient and at the same time prevent misuse. Loud MDR The payment card largely replaces the previous cash payments, although transfers abroad and overdrafts are excluded.

The advantages of this approach are obvious: By using credit on debit cards, municipalities find that administrative work has been greatly reduced, as cash withdrawals and transfers are no longer necessary. Ariane Berger, managing director of the Saxony-Anhalt district council, describes the payment card as easy to use. It is becoming apparent that this has also resulted in good business for the administrations.

However, there are also downsides

Despite the positive feedback, there are heated discussions about the payment card. There is criticism of cash withdrawals, which are limited to a maximum of 50 euros per beneficiary per month. This restriction is met with incomprehension because many asylum seekers do not feel adequately supported financially. The question is also raised as to whether the payment card also contributes to the stigmatization of asylum seekers. Many fear that the use of this card, which is not part of the Girocard system, represents a recognizable mark that makes integration into society more difficult.

Another problem is the limited acceptance of payment cards in shops, especially in rural areas. The question here is how best to cover the basic needs of refugees. Politicians argue that the introduction of this card is intended primarily to reduce administrative costs and limit spending to ensure basic needs. However, critics counter that the financial autonomy of those affected is restricted, which can lead to a feeling of disempowerment.

Legal framework and services

Legally, the payment card is based on the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act, which regulates benefits for asylum seekers, tolerated people and people who are required to leave the country. These legal principles create the basis for refugees to be entitled to benefits from the moment they submit their asylum application. This is important information because the entitlement to benefits does not only become effective when the formal application is submitted, but is already available beforehand Basic knowledge of asylum makes clear.

It is also worth mentioning that after 36 months of continuous residence, analogue benefits (comparable to social assistance) can be applied for under certain prerequisites. In the meantime, asylum seekers receive benefits under the AsylbLG, while recognized refugees are entitled to social benefits under the Social Security Code. And don't forget: Ukrainian refugees also have access to this support after they have submitted an application for temporary protection.

The discourse about the payment card for asylum seekers not only shows the challenges associated with its introduction, but also raises questions about the rights and integration of refugees in Germany. Whether it actually contributes to improving the living situation of those affected or creates new hurdles remains to be seen.