What does this mean for me?
Sections 60–67 SGB I cover cooperation, including giving relevant information and providing evidence. Under section 65, duties are limited in situations such as disproportionate effort or unreasonable demands. Before restricting or refusing benefits for a failure to cooperate, the office generally must give a written warning and a reasonable deadline.
Any restriction must follow the statutory conditions and should not be treated as an automatic outcome.
What can I do now?
1.1
Make a list of each requested item and the date it is due.
2.2
Send available material; explain in writing why any missing item cannot reasonably be supplied.
3.3
If the office warns of reduced or refused benefits, respond before the deadline and keep copies.
An example
Cooperation duties and their limits
A person is asked for an old document held by another institution. They explain the difficulty, provide permission for a lawful inquiry if appropriate, and ask for more time. The office must assess the circumstances and legal limits.
Scope and support
General orientation in German social law, not individual legal advice or a guarantee. Check the decision, remedy instructions and special rules. The office or court decides each case. BAföG uses administrative courts; social-court rules do not automatically apply. A lawyer may charge fees; legal aid may be available subject to conditions.
Your rights in German social lawCourts, costs and legal aid