Communication with the funding agency

Before you start looking for accommodation, you should ask your benefits provider to confirm that the move is necessary. If you receive benefits from the Sozialamt, make an appointment to see them on site. If you receive benefits from the Jobcenter, print out the relocation pack (see adjacent information box for names of forms) and send the completed form  1 to the Jobcenter. The benefits provider will then check whether a transfer is necessary.

Form 2 relates to a specific offer of accommodation. It will be completed by you and your prospective landlord as soon as you have found accommodation but before you sign the tenancy agreement. Your welfare provider will use this form to check that the flat is suitable. Only when you receive confirmation that your welfare provider recognises the flat as suitable can you sign the tenancy agreement. Form 3 relates to the deposit and moving costs.

The process for communicating with the Jobcenter is shown in the diagram opposite.

* Many large housing associations have rental certificates which contain all the information you need and can replace form 2.

*  Many large housing associations have forms that contain all the necessary information and can be used instead of form 2.