Payment card for asylum seekers: 50 euros per month from December in Lüneburg!

Payment card for asylum seekers: 50 euros per month from December in Lüneburg!

Lüneburg.From December Lower Saxony will become a pioneering region in Germany: The controversial payment card for asylum seekers will be introduced! The company "Secupay AG" has been awarded the contract and the first cards are distributed through the state admission authority. The municipalities should later take over. The state of Lower Saxony bears the costs - but what does that mean for those affected?

In Lüneburg there will be the distribution of cards in the social welfare office and in the refugee accommodation in Sumte. A spokesman for the district of Lüneburg admits: "When exactly the cards will be output is still unclear, but it could start in February." The uncertainty remains while the preparations are in full swing. At the end of May, around 1700 asylum seekers lived in the district, and every adult recipient is entitled to this new card.

Payment card for asylum seekers: 50 euros cash per month

The payment card works like a debit card and enables the refugee to withdraw 50 euros in cash per month. A real shock for many, because lifting is capped! The Lower Saxony Ministry of the Interior emphasizes that the card does not require any account access and enables direct payment. But the cap is to prevent money from being “misused” - a controversial argument that critic calls on the scene.

The left sharply criticizes the measure: "This card is an unnecessary control instrument that discriminates against people who are looking for protection with us." Marianne Esters, a member of the state board, describes the cash ceiling as a "symbol image of human context". While supporters speak of reducing administrative expenses, the question remains: is this measure really in the interest of the people who concern them?