Unemployment is a reality that many citizens in Spain face at some point in their working lives. Understanding how the unemployment system works, who is eligible to receive this aid, and what additional aid is available in 2024 is vital for anyone who finds themselves in this situation.
Unemployment, officially known as unemployment benefit, is financial support given to workers who involuntarily lose their job or whose working hours are reduced due to economic, technical, organizational or production conditions. To be eligible for unemployment benefits in Spain in 2024, several requirements must be met:
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Contributing to Social Security At least 360 days in the last 6 years before legal unemployment status.
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To be registered as a job seeker and have not rejected a suitable job offer or refused to participate in promotion, training or professional retraining activities offered by employment services.
How to collect unemployment
- Register as a job seeker. The first thing to do is to register as a job seeker with the state’s public employment agency (SEPE).
- Application for benefits. After registration, you must apply for unemployment benefits within 15 business days from the end of employment activity.
- Required documents. To claim unemployment, you must submit the application form, DNI or NIE, family ledger (if applicable), proof of last 180 days worked, and termination letter or equivalent document.
In addition to unemployment benefits, there are also various benefits for people who have exhausted their unemployment benefits or who are not eligible for this benefit for various reasons. Here we explain what the aid is, its duration and amount:
- Asset Addition Income (RAI). It is aimed at long-term unemployed people over the age of 45, victims of gender-based violence or people with disabilities. Beneficiaries may not have income higher than the Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI) and this lasts for 11 months. The amount is 480 Euros per month (80% of IPREM).
- Unemployment benefit: For those who have exhausted unemployment benefits and meet certain requirements regarding lack of income and family responsibilities. Its duration is 6 months and may be extended depending on the duration of unemployment benefit you have consumed and your age. This amount is 480 euros per month.
- HE Extraordinary Unemployment Subsidy SEPE is for individuals who have exhausted other benefits, including Active Addition Income, and meet a number of specific requirements. This assistance has a fixed duration and cannot be extended beyond this period. The monthly amount is 480 euros.
- Subsidy for people over 52 years of age. This is a benefit for this group that can be collected until they reach normal retirement age and contribute to their retirement.
People who are unemployed in Spain in 2024 need to be clear about their rights and the benefits available. Unemployment benefits and various benefits provide vital support during this period. However, proactivity in job search and ongoing skills development are essential to successfully re-enter the labor market.
Those looking for more information or need guidance on how to apply for these benefits and benefits are advised to visit the official SEPE website or go to their nearest employment office for personalized advice.