A group of retirees exercise on the beach in Benidorm. David’s Revenge
In Spain, the Allowance for citizens over 52 is a crucial form of economic support designed to assist people who are older in their working lives and facing unemployment. This explanation covers what the subsidy is, who qualifies, and how to apply. It also outlines recent government changes that affect the amount, contributions, and eligibility for early retirement.
What is the allowance for people over 52 years old?
The subsidy for people over 52 years of age is a program administered by the State Public Employment Service in Spain. Its purpose is to provide financial support to unemployed individuals who are aged 52 or older until they reach retirement age. This assistance is especially important because reentering the job market can be challenging for workers in this age bracket.
To qualify for this subsidy, applicants must meet several criteria:
- Be 52 years or older at the time of application.
- Be registered as a job seeker for at least one month after the end of unemployment benefits.
- Have contributed to unemployment insurance for at least 15 years during their working life.
- Meet the requirements to access a contributory pension, with age not being the sole criterion. Previously, recipients had to retire early, but that is no longer required.
- Have an income not exceeding 75% of the Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income (IPREM), excluding Social Security contributions.
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How to apply for the subsidy for people over 52
Applications are made through the Public Employment Service. Interested individuals can submit their requests in person at SEPE offices, by appointment, or through SEPE’s online portal. It is essential to have all required documentation ready, including personal identification, proof of employment history, and other documents demonstrating compliance with the eligibility criteria.
Significant changes to the subsidy for people over 52
Recent government updates have introduced changes that directly affect beneficiaries of this subsidy. The following points summarize the key developments:
- The subsidy amount remains fixed at 80% of the IPREM, which equates to around 480 euros per month. The IPREM value has not yet been updated for 2024. If IPREM increases in the future, the subsidy amount for those over 52 will rise accordingly. This adjustment ensures that the basic level of support remains stable in real terms even when the broader tax and social indicators shift.
- Lower contributions. A notable reform lowers the social security contributions associated with the subsidy. Starting June 1, 2024, the contribution rate changes from 125% of the minimum base to a lower rate. The base contribution will move to 115% in 2025, then 110% in 2026, and 105% in 2017. These adjustments affect how benefits interact with overall social security calculations while preserving the financial relief for beneficiaries.
- Complementary integration with work. The regulation now allows unemployment benefits to be combined with employment activities. For individuals who receive the subsidy part-time or full-time while re-entering the labor market, this subsidy for people over 52 can operate as a complement to ongoing employment support rather than a standalone program.
These changes reflect the government’s ongoing effort to balance social protection with incentives to rejoin the workforce. They are designed to provide steady support while encouraging older workers to pursue new job opportunities and maintain financial stability during a transition period. Source: official government communications and SEPE guidelines (Sources: SEPE, Ministerio de Trabajo y Economía Social).