Abstract
For some time, economic policy debates have focused on how the complex German system of social transfers could be changed to strengthen work incentives. This article proposes a broader perspective that goes beyond formal legal entitlements to encompass the lived experiences of welfare leavers. It explores from a sociological perspective and based on in-depth interviews, how Ukrainian refugees, whose labour market integration is of particular political priority, experience the transition out of basic income support. The abrupt end of transfer payments, unexpected repayments, and uncertainty about the amount of supplementary benefits pose particular burdens that can have a negative long-term impact. In addition to unbureaucratic financial start-up assistance, job centers should provide a sensitive transition management.