Christian Dürr, the FDP parliamentary group leader, has called for a reduction in the Bürgergeld, citing lower-than-expected inflation rates.
He argues that the current monthly amount is 14 to 20 euros too high, suggesting that a decrease would relieve taxpayers by up to 850 million euros and increase work incentives.
The Bürgergeld had previously risen by 12% at the start of 2024, with single recipients now receiving 563 euros monthly.
Dürr's proposal comes amid discussions of a potential freeze on increases in 2025, as inflation rates have begun to decline.
The German government spent approximately 42.6 billion euros on Bürgergeld last year, emphasizing the need to maintain a minimum standard of living for those unable to support themselves financially.