To apply for unemployment benefits in Germany, you need to register with the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) responsible for your place of residence. Here are the key steps:

• Register as a job seeker : This should be done at the latest three months before your employment ends, or within three days after learning about your unemployment if the notice period is shorter. You can register in person at the local employment agency, online (if you have a valid electronic ID), or by phone. However, even if you register online or by phone, you must make an appointment for a personal visit to finalize the registration

• Register as unemployed : This must be done in person at the employment agency no later than the first day of your unemployment (or up to three months before). Registration as unemployed is necessary to secure your financial entitlements and apply for unemployment benefits (ALG I)

• Apply for unemployment benefits : After registering as unemployed, you will need to complete an application form, which can be done online via the Federal Employment Agency's eServices portal or in person at the agency

• Attend an appointment : The agency will schedule an appointment where you will discuss your situation, provide necessary documents (such as your ID, bank details, employment contracts, and termination certificates), and receive support for job seeking or training opportunities

• Additional steps for foreigners : If you are a foreign resident, you must also notify the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) about your unemployment within two weeks if possible

In summary, you apply for unemployment benefits by registering as a job seeker and then as unemployed at your local employment agency (Arbeitsagentur), either in person or online if eligible, followed by submitting an application for benefits and attending an appointment