The claim
A common claim is that asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum receive higher social benefits than Austrian citizens with average incomes.
Our conclusion
This claim is misleading and based on incorrect calculations. Asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum do not receive more social benefits than Austrian citizens with an average income.
What is the background to the claim that Austrians receive fewer social benefits than “asylum seekers”?
Misinterpretations in the social benefits debate
Unfortunately, in today's flood of information, misinformation and half-truths are not uncommon, especially when it comes to sensitive topics such as social benefits for asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum.
This article sheds light on the truth behind an oft-repeated claim and clarifies what is fact and what is fiction.
Rumors/claims about “Austrians in need” cash benefits
There is a rumor circulating that asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum receive more money from the state than Austrian citizens with an average salary.
This claim is often spread by relevant groups and is based on outdated or incorrect calculations. This comparison reflects the well-known theme that some people receive higher social benefits “for doing nothing” than others “for working”.
Evaluation
Comparisons between social benefits for asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum and the salaries of Austrian citizens show that these claims are not true. Such comparisons have already been refuted in the past. SO S Mitmensch published a correction in September 2011.
The facts
- False Calculations: The calculations used to support these claims are often flawed.
They do not take into account the actual social benefits that asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum receive and often overestimate their amount. If an employee earns 1,728.36 euros gross per month, after deducting social security contributions and wage tax, the net salary is 1,428.01 euros. This amount is significantly higher than what was assumed in the incorrect invoice. If one also takes into account the family allowance for three children, which is assumed in the lowest case according to the sample calculation, the income increases to just over 1,800 euros. - Differences between asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum: There is often no clear distinction between asylum seekers and those entitled to asylum. The term “asylum seeker” says nothing about the status of the person. Those entitled to asylum receive social assistance , while asylum seekers are only entitled to basic services .
- Comparison with average salaries: The comparisons do not take into account the actual average salaries of Austrian citizens. A skilled worker usually earns more than indicated in the incorrect calculations. Current data from a job portal shows that the salary for skilled workers in advertised positions varies between almost 30,000 euros and almost 47,000 euros annually, with a median annual salary of around 36,800 euros.
Additional information
- Background and history: The claims and incorrect calculations have a long history and have already been refuted several times. Nevertheless, they continue to be spread on social media and by certain political groups.
- Significance for public perception: This false information contributes to a distorted image of social welfare in Austria and can lead to social tensions and misunderstandings.
Conclusion
The Sharepic has been circulating on the Internet for at least 13 years. The figures are incorrect and the statements are misleading because no clear information is provided.
To protect yourself from misinformation, we recommend always relying on trustworthy sources and thinking critically about what is shared on social media.
Source: DPA
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )