Cologne needs YOU! Become a poll worker and earn up to 190 euros!

Cologne needs YOU! Become a poll worker and earn up to 190 euros!

The local elections in Cologne are coming up on September 14, 2025 and the city is urgently looking for election workers. At the moment, only around 2,300 election workers have been assigned, with a total of around 8,500 needed. Registration numbers have fallen sharply since the end of May and only a few volunteers are currently registering each day, which is fewer than in the last federal election. Accordingly, there is a gap that must be closed in order to guarantee that the election runs smoothly. Radio Cologne reports that a call has been made to all interested citizens who would like to take part in this unique event.

But what do election workers expect for their work? An interesting detail is the refreshment money they receive for their work. The refreshment allowance varies depending on their role and whether they help on both election days or with the upcoming integration election. For example, election officers and clerks receive 80 euros on each election day, while assessors receive 60 euros. Anyone who can commit to the runoff election on September 28th can also look forward to a bonus of 30 euros, which can lead to a total remuneration of up to 190 euros if used on both election days. The city of Cologne provides information about the detailed remuneration and conditions that the election workers will be entitled to.

The importance of election workers

As a poll worker you have an important responsibility. Your commitment is crucial for a fair and orderly election outcome. In order to fulfill this task, some requirements are necessary. Electoral officers and secretaries as well as their deputies must take part in a preparatory workshop. There is an expense allowance of 50 euros for this workshop. This means that the city of Cologne ensures that the election workers are prepared and also provides compensation for this.

In addition, the payment of the refreshment allowance is subject to conditions: only those who were actually at work on election day are entitled to the payment. And there are no further claims for food, travel or accommodation costs. This is important to know if you want to register as a poll worker. Wahlhelfer.info highlights that the refreshment allowance is a form of recognition for volunteer election workers that not only contributes to democracy but also promotes citizen participation.

A call to citizens

The city of Cologne is now hoping for an increase in registrations in order to close the gaps before the election dates. This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to actively participate in the democratic process. So if you have a good knack for organization or simply enjoy helping people, you should definitely get in touch. It's not only worth it for democracy, but also for your own pocket. After all, part of the remuneration can also be used to finance your own beer at the next evening in Cologne.

The rush of the last few days leaves a lot to be desired, so the city appeals to everyone to get involved not only for reasons of financial benefit, but also out of conviction for a strong and united Cologne. Let us work together to ensure that the elections run smoothly!