How to apply for your AVGS

Your voucher in 8 steps

1. First conversation with me

   We get to know each other: I explain the process and how systemic coaching works. Then you decide in your own time – the first conversation is free and non-binding.

2. Register as unemployed or as a jobseeker

   As a rule, an AVGS requires you to be registered with the employment agency or job centre. You can do this online via the federal agency’s portal, by phone or in person. If you are still employed but have received notice, register as a "jobseeker".

3. Check your chances

   An AVGS for coaching is a discretionary benefit (§ 45 SGB III) – your caseworker decides. Get clarity beforehand on how good your conditions are. Our AVGS check gives you a first orientation in a minute – so you go into the conversation prepared.

4. Actively ask your caseworker

   The AVGS is not issued automatically – you have to ask for it. Request an appointment and state clearly that you want to use AVGS-funded coaching. Use our sample wording below. If you have already had an appointment, you can also contact them directly. Mention that the coaching takes place online.

5. Justify your need

   Briefly and concretely explain why the coaching brings you closer to your goal – e.g. orientation, application documents, interviews, returning to work. The clearer the link to taking up employment, the better. There is a template for this below too.

6. Say that you already have a coach

   Name Dr Janosch Leugner as your coach to your caseworker. The coaching is AVGS-eligible through an AZAV-certified provider – I take care of the provider, you do not need to find or contact it. Ask for „Einzelcoaching“ (one-to-one coaching) to be written on the voucher. As the coaching takes place online by video, also ask for „bundesweit“ (nationwide) instead of a restriction to your region.

7. Check the voucher before you leave

   The voucher should state: Einzelcoaching (one-to-one coaching), goal, content, scope (30 to 60 teaching units of 45 minutes over 8 to 12 weeks is sensible), „bundesweit“ (nationwide) and the expiry date. The coaching must start before the voucher expires – it is valid at most as long as your integration agreement or your unemployment benefit.

8. Pass on the voucher & start

   Send me a photo or scan the same day. The provider submits the original to the employment agency or job centre before the coaching starts – I will tell you where to send it. We only start after written approval, because costs are not covered retroactively. We spread the sessions over at least two days a week; after the coaching, your caseworker will usually invite you to a follow-up meeting within four weeks. The coaching is completely free of charge for you.

Ready-made wording to copy

You can use these texts as a conversation guide, an email or a message in the online portal. Adapt names and details to your situation.

Hello, I would like to actively develop professionally and use coaching to support my return to work. I kindly ask you to issue an Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS) under § 45 SGB III. I have already found a coach: Dr Janosch Leugner (Alizee Institute); the coaching is eligible through a provider accredited under AZAV. I would like a voucher for one-to-one coaching (Einzelcoaching). The coaching takes place online, so I would like a voucher valid nationwide (bundesweit). Could we arrange this together?

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am registered with you as unemployed/a jobseeker (customer number: __________) and would like to use coaching to support my professional orientation and return to work.

I hereby apply for the issuance of an Activation and Placement Voucher (AVGS) under § 45 SGB III. The coaching specifically supports me with [orientation / application documents / interviews / returning to work]. I would like a voucher for one-to-one coaching (Einzelcoaching/Einzelmaßnahme). As my coach I have found Dr Janosch Leugner (Alizee Institute) – the coaching is AVGS-eligible through an AZAV-accredited provider; he coordinates with the provider.

The coaching takes place online; I therefore ask for the voucher to be issued nationwide (bundesweit).

I would appreciate an appointment or a brief reply on how to proceed.

Kind regards,
[First name Last name]

The coaching helps me clarify my strengths and career goals, improve my application documents and prepare specifically for interviews. This increases my chances of a swift and sustainable return to work.

I understand that the first step is to check whether direct placement is possible. In my case, coaching is more promising because [my applications so far have not been successful / my degree or experience does not directly match the vacancies offered / I want to move into industry after my doctorate or studies / I am new to the German job market]. With targeted support I will find a job that matches my qualifications and that I can keep in the long term, instead of becoming unemployed again after a short time.