WHAT IS AN AVGS VOUCHER?
Item #1
AVGS Guide
What exactly is this "AVGS" and who pays for it?
The AVGS (Activation and Placement Voucher) is a voucher issued by the Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit) or the Jobcenter. Essentially, it’s a guarantee that the state will cover the full cost of your coaching. This means it is completely free of charge for you. It’s not “charity” – it’s an investment in your next professional chapter.
Am I eligible for an AVGS?
There is no automatic legal right to an AVGS; it usually depends on your caseworker’s assessment. If your caseworker changes and you were previously denied, it’s worth trying again. The better your reasoning, the higher your chances. The only basic requirement: You must be officially registered as “job-seeking” (arbeitssuchend) or “unemployed” (arbeitslos) with the Employment Agency or Jobcenter.
Unemployed: If you currently receive Unemployment Benefit I (ALG I) or Bürgergeld.
Job-seekers (Important!): Even if you are still employed, you can apply for the voucher 3 months before your contract ends (e.g., if you have a fixed-term contract or have received notice).
Non-benefit recipients: Are you registered with the office but don’t receive payments? You are often still eligible for coaching.
Career returners: If you want to re-enter the workforce after parental leave or caring for a relative.
Self-employed: If your business isn’t generating enough income and you need support or a “Gründungszuschuss” from the Jobcenter.
Students/Graduates: If you’re struggling to land your first job after university or after dropping out.
How does the application work? I feel uncomfortable asking my caseworker.
I completely understand – dealing with authorities can feel heavy. Try to view the application as a solution-oriented conversation. Your caseworker primarily wants to know: Will this voucher help you find a job faster? Your best argument: “I want to get back to work as soon as possible, but I’ve realized I’m stuck at a point I can’t resolve on my own. Targeted one-on-one coaching with a certified partner will help me overcome this (e.g., career reorientation or self-presentation) and increase my chances of getting hired.”
How do I redeem my AVGS voucher?
It’s simple: Once you have your voucher (AVGS), just send me a photo or a scan of it.
We’ll handle the rest. I’ll forward everything to my certified partner, who will take care of the formalities and billing with the authorities for you. You don’t need to worry about any paperwork. My partner will then get back to you with the final confirmation, and we can start your coaching right away
How long does the coaching last and how often do we meet?
That depends on how your caseworker evaluates your case. The more clearly you explain that you need support with complex hurdles to get back into a job, the more comprehensive the voucher will be. According to official guidelines, we meet twice a week for 90 minutes each. Usually, the coaching lasts between 4 to 12 weeks.
Do I have to accept any job after the coaching?
No. The goal is sustainable integration. We work on finding something that truly fits you and is meant to last long-term.
What happens if I want to stop the coaching?
We work together as long as it helps you. If you feel it’s not the right fit or your life situation changes, we’ll find a solution. There is no pressure – our collaboration is meant to be a support, not another stressful item on your to-do list.
Can I really choose my own coach?
Yes. Even if suggestions are sometimes made to you: You decide where the chemistry is right. If you feel that my approach fits you, you can use your voucher specifically for our collaboration.
Does the Jobcenter find out everything we discuss in coaching?
No. What we discuss stays completely between us. While there is a formal report for the authorities at the end, it only covers your progress and the next professional steps. Your personal processes, fears, or private details belong to you and remain in our protected space.