Deutschlandticket for €27.50 with Grundsicherung, but only in Hamburg
The Deutschlandticket costs 63 euros a month. There is no nationwide discount for people who receive the new Grundsicherung (formerly Bürgergeld). Instead, some states, transport associations and cities offer their own reduced tickets, so the price depends on where you live.
The cheapest offer is in Hamburg. The transport association HVV gives a social discount of 35.50 euros a month, so the Deutschlandticket costs 27.50 euros. You must be registered in Hamburg and receive Grundsicherung, ongoing help with living costs (Hilfe zum Lebensunterhalt), basic income support in old age or for reduced earning capacity, or benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act (AsylbLG). The discount applies only for full months and only while your benefit decision is valid. You can apply up to three months back or two months ahead.
Elsewhere the discounts are smaller. In North Rhine-Westphalia, the VRS and VRR transport associations sell the "Deutschlandticket Sozial" for 53 euros a month. In Hesse, people with the "Hessenpass mobil" pay 44 euros a month. Most Grundsicherung recipients in Hesse get the Hessenpass mobil automatically from the office that pays their benefit, but in Frankfurt am Main and Darmstadt you have to ask for it. In Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg there is no statewide rule, but some cities and transport associations have their own offers.
The regular price for 2027 has not been set yet. It is due to be announced by 30 September, and local social ticket prices can change with it.
What to do: ask your Jobcenter, social welfare office or local transport company whether a social ticket exists where you live and which proof you need, usually your current benefit decision (Bescheid). If you receive benefits under the AsylbLG, check as well, because many social tickets include you. In Hamburg, tell the HVV straight away if your benefits stop, because using the discount without a right to it can be treated as fraud.