Germany: Complete Guide to Disability Employment

Legal Framework

Social Code Book IX (SGB IX)

The primary law governing disability employment in Germany, covering:

• Definition of disability
• Employer obligations
• Support services
• Quota requirements

Degree of Disability (GdB)

Disability is measured on a scale of 20-100:

• GdB 50+: Severely disabled (schwerbehindert)
• GdB 30-40: Can be equated with severe disability for employment

The Schwerbehindertenausweis

Official ID card confirming severe disability status, providing access to:

• Employment protections
• Additional leave (5 days)
• Tax benefits
• Public transport discounts

Employer Quota System

Requirements

• Employers with 20+ employees must fill 5% of positions with severely disabled workers