SEPE, the State Employment Public Service, plays a key role in managing Spain’s unemployment protection system and provides financial support to people facing involuntary job loss. Its mandate goes beyond simply offering security to those who qualify for benefits. It also establishes targeted support mechanisms for groups that encounter particular barriers when entering the labor market.
Among these groups, SEPE gives special attention to workers aged 45 and older, recognizing the extra challenges they may face when seeking work. It also prioritizes assistance for unemployed individuals with family responsibilities who risk social exclusion, underscoring the importance of sustaining those who bear significant household duties.
Currently, SEPE offers three aid options designed for those who have exhausted standard unemployment benefits. Notably, in some cases these supports can extend up to retirement age, providing ongoing assistance to people who repeatedly encounter difficulties in the labor market.
Extraordinary Unemployment Assistance
Extraordinary Unemployment Assistance is a subsidy for unemployed individuals who have exhausted all prior benefits. This benefit provides 480 euros per month and cannot be extended or renewed. Here is what is needed to apply:
- Own and family income must not exceed 75 percent of the Minimum Interprofessional Salary (SMI), equivalent to €1,080 per month.
- The applicant must not be entitled to any other aid or contribution.
- Possessing family responsibilities, whether children under 26 or adults with a recognized disability.
- Proof of at least three job search actions.
- This must be the first time applying for this subsidy.
- Must not be employed as a worker.
- The prior dismissal must have been involuntary, due to dismissal.
Applications can be submitted through SEPE’s electronic headquarters online, or by arranging an in-person appointment at the nearest employment office.
RAI: Help for the Long-Term Unemployed
RAI, the Asset Addition Income, is a mechanism designed to facilitate the reintegration of long-term unemployed individuals who face particular difficulties in finding work. The assistance is awarded for up to 11 months, with the possibility of renewal up to three times, maintaining a one-year gap between renewals. It is important to note that RAI is not the same as the Minimum Social Supplementary Income. The RAI payment equals 80 percent of the IPREM, set at 480 euros per month for this year. Here are the requirements to access RAI.
- Be registered as a job seeker for 12 months or more.
- Be between 45 and 65 years old.
- Not be entitled to unemployment benefits, subsidies, or agricultural income.
- Have exhausted unemployment or subsidy benefits.
Applications can be made through SEPE’s electronic headquarters online, or by scheduling an in-person appointment at the nearest employment office.
Help for People Aged 52 and Over
SEPE recognizes the particular challenges faced by people aged 52 and over when entering the job market. Special assistance is available for those who have exhausted their unemployment benefit or subsidy. This subsidy can extend until retirement age, ensuring a stable monthly income. The monthly amount is 480 euros. To qualify for this aid, the following conditions apply:
- Income must not exceed 75 percent of the minimum interprofessional salary.
- The unemployment benefit has been exhausted while contributing.
- You must be 52 or older.
- Being an immigrant returning to Spain.
- Being released from prison without eligibility for unemployment benefits.
- Receiving a benefit within 90 to 359 days.
Applications can be submitted through SEPE’s electronic headquarters online, or by arranging an in-person appointment at the nearest employment office.
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To apply, you can access SEPE’s electronic headquarters online or by making an appointment and choosing in person at the nearest employment office.