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Lost your job: registering with AMS

AMS is the public employment service. If your job ends, register as early as possible: benefit is paid only from the day you apply, never retroactively.

When
Right away — ideally before your last working day
How
Online in MeinAMS or in person at your AMS office
Benefit
Base amount — 55% of net income (+ supplements)
Work record
Usually 52 insured weeks in 24 months

Step by step

  1. Register with AMS as soon as you know your end date: online via MeinAMS (eAMS) or in person at the office for your area.
  2. Apply for Arbeitslosengeld (unemployment benefit). It is paid only from the day you apply — every day of delay is lost.
  3. Attend the appointment with your AMS adviser: discuss your profile, goals and, if needed, courses (including German).
  4. Keep to the agreements: attend appointments, respond to job offers and report any changes — otherwise payments can be suspended.

What to bring

  • Passport or ID
  • Social security number (e-card)
  • For non-EU citizens — residence and labour-market access document
  • Bank details (IBAN)

Common mistakes

Waiting until things settle. No benefit is paid for days before you apply.

Missing an AMS appointment without good reason — it can cost you payments.

Not reporting a side job or a move.

Words you will meet

arbeitslosunemployed
das Arbeitslosengeldunemployment benefit
der Berater / die Beraterinadviser
die Stellejob, position
der Terminappointment

Official sources

Checked: 2026-10-05. This is a plain-language summary of official information, not legal advice. Deadlines and amounts change — check the linked official sources before you go.