Can You Use AVGS for Career Coaching if You’re Still Employed? (Spoiler: Yes, and Here’s How…)
A question I get asked a lot is: “Can I actually use the AVGS voucher for career coaching if I’m still employed?”
The answer is yes — and in fact, this might be the smartest time to use it. Let me explain.
You Don’t Have to Be Unemployed to Qualify
One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to already be unemployed to apply for the AVGS voucher. Not true.
Here’s how it works:
If you have even a suspicion that you may lose your job, you can already register with the Agentur für Arbeit as jobsuchend (job-seeking).
You can do this, for example, if your probation is ending and you haven’t heard about an extension, or if your company is restructuring.
Once you’re registered, you are eligible to request an AVGS voucher — even while technically still employed.
If you’re confused about the difference between jobsuchend (job-seeking) and arbeitslos (unemployed), I explain it clearly here: Avoid Confusion: The Difference Between Jobsuchend and Arbeitslos.
Decide: Do You Need Job Coaching or Career Coaching?
Before you apply for an AVGS voucher, get clear on what kind of support you actually need.
Some clients come to me knowing exactly what type of job they want next — they’re happy with their career direction but want help polishing their CV, preparing for interviews, and landing a new role. In that case, job coaching is the right choice.
Others feel stuck, uninspired, or completely unsure about what’s next. They may want to reinvent their career, explore new paths, or find work that feels aligned with their values. That’s where career coaching makes sense.
To understand the difference more deeply, I’ve written this article: Career Coaching vs. Job Coaching: Understanding the Difference.
Choosing the right type of coaching will help you make the most of your AVGS voucher — and set you up for a smoother experience with your caseworker.
The Caseworker’s Role
Of course, there’s one gatekeeper in this process: your caseworker (Berater*in). They decide if you’ll be granted a voucher and for how many hours.
My advice? Make your case in writing. Show them you’re serious and proactive. Having a coach already in mind — and even better, an offer from that coach — often works in your favor.
I explain exactly how to maximize your chances of getting approval here: How to Maximize Your Chances of Getting Your AVGS Voucher Approved.
Real Talk from My Coaching Room
Many of my clients come to me while still employed but already unhappy, restless, or sensing a change is coming. Some don’t know what’s next — they just know it’s not this.
And you know what? That’s the perfect time to start coaching.
Because here’s the truth: you don’t have to wait until you’re unemployed to ask for help. In fact, the sooner you start, the smoother your transition will be.
Additional Resources
To dive deeper into how AVGS coaching really works, here are a few articles I’ve written:
Your Next Step
If you’re employed but already thinking about your next chapter, don’t wait until it’s too late. Register as jobsuchend, request your AVGS voucher, and start working with a coach you truly resonate with.
Want to explore if AVGS career coaching is right for you? Book a free call with me today and let’s talk it through.
Until our next breakthrough!
