Who Pays for the Sports Club Fee? Understanding “Bildung und Teilhabe” and Jobcenter Support for Children in Germany

Sports and cultural activities are a crucial part of childhood in Germany. They help build physical health, social skills, and self-confidence. However, club fees or music classes can be financially challenging for low-income families.
To ensure equal access, the German government introduced “Bildung und Teilhabe” (BuT) – a program that enables children from financially disadvantaged families to participate for free or at reduced cost in educational and recreational activities.

What is “Bildung und Teilhabe”?

It is a social support package for children and young people aged 0–25, covering:

• Sports club memberships

• Music, dance, and art lessons

• School trips and extracurricular activities

• Tutoring (Nachhilfe)

• Transportation to school

The program is often referred to as BuT.

Who is eligible?

Children living in households receiving:

• Bürgergeld (formerly Hartz IV)

• Social assistance

• Housing allowance (Wohngeld)

• Child supplement (Kinderzuschlag)

• Asylum seekers’ benefits

If the family receives any of these benefits, the child is usually eligible.

What does the program cover for sports clubs?

BuT covers up to 15 EUR per month per child for:

• Sports clubs

• Music, dance, and art classes

• Swimming lessons or special courses

• Educational and social programs

Payments are made directly to the provider, not to the family.
If the fee exceeds 15 EUR, parents must pay the difference.

How to apply?

1. Obtain the application form from:

   • Jobcenter

   • Social welfare office (Sozialamt)

   • Local municipality offices

2. Fill it out together with the club or course provider.

3. Submit it to the responsible authority.

4. After approval, payments are transferred directly each month.

Not sure which club is suitable?

You may contact:

• The local Youth Office (Jugendamt)

• Studierendenwerk if a parent is a student

• Community organizations or refugee support groups

They can help you find suitable activities.

What about refugee children?

Children receiving benefits under the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act can also use BuT, provided they attend school or live in an eligible household.

Conclusion

Bildung und Teilhabe ensures that all children, regardless of family income, can take part in sports, cultural, and educational activities.
With up to 15 EUR per month, your child can join a sports club, take music lessons, or participate in meaningful extracurricular programs.