The HE allowance for citizens aged 52 and older is a key element of the social protection system. It provides financial support to older workers who are unemployed and face greater challenges returning to work due to age. The subsidy delivers immediate economic relief while also helping maintain Social Security contributions, which supports beneficiaries’ future retirement income and reduces the risk of long-term financial hardship.
Benefit amount and duration for those over 52 years of age
The allowance for citizens over 52 years of age is set at 80% of the current Multiple Impact Public Revenue Indicator, or IPREM. Today, subject to the General State Budget approval and its connection to IPREM, the indicator stands at 600 euros per month. Those who qualify for the subsidy over the age of 52 will receive 480 euros monthly. This framework helps ensure a steady level of support for eligible individuals as they transition through unemployment toward retirement.
Unlike many other benefits, this subsidy does not have a fixed end date. It continues as long as the individual remains eligible and has not reached retirement age, providing ongoing financial stability during the later stages of the working life.
Social Security contribution
A central aspect of this subsidy is that SEPE (the public employment service) continues to contribute to Social Security on behalf of the beneficiary. This arrangement ensures that retirement benefits keep accumulating even while monetary support is being received. The ongoing contribution helps safeguard a contributory pension once retirement is reached, reinforcing long-term financial security. The basis quoted for contributions is 125 percent.
Subsidy requirements for people over 52
To access the subsidy, applicants must meet several criteria aimed at ensuring that support reaches those most in need and at a vulnerable point in their working lives. According to information from the State Public Employment Service (SEPE), the eligibility criteria include:
- Age: The applicant must be 52 years old or older at the time of application.
- Registered as a job seeker: A continuous registration of at least one month prior to applying is required, with no rejection of suitable job offers or refusal to participate in promotion, training, or professional retraining activities offered by employment services.
- Agreement to participate: The applicant must agree to the operating guidelines included in the subsidy application.
- Unemployment contribution: At least 15 years of retirement contributions during the working life, with at least two of those years in the last 15, and at least 6 years of unemployment contributions.
- Adequate contribution for retirement: Proof of a sufficient contribution period to qualify for a contributory pension, with exceptions only for unemployment benefits for those over 52.
- Limited income: Personal income must not exceed 75% of the Minimum Interprofessional Salary, excluding prorated portions of any outstanding payments.
- Exhaustion of benefits: If unemployment benefits have been exhausted at the contribution level or if remaining conditions are met but eligibility is not, the applicant may still be eligible under certain circumstances.
The HE allowance for citizens over 52 plays a fundamental role in social protection for this group. It provides not just economic support but a bridge toward retirement. By ensuring continued Social Security contributions, the program supports long-term financial stability and helps prevent social exclusion for older workers facing unemployment.