The topic of unemployment benefits and subsidies is on everyone’s radar. Following the vote against Podemos in parliament, uncertainty rose as reform plans targeted the social safety net. On December 19, the Council of Ministers approved a reform package that the left wing opposed, stating that it would mean cuts for workers who rely on salaries. One notable provision concerns allowances for people over 52 years old.
When reform is not approved, many wonder what changes would actually take effect. Specifically, questions arise about unemployment benefits for those aged 52 and older.
Subsidy for people over 52: how much is charged?
This point was among the most debated aspects of the plan proposed by Labor Minister Yolanda Díaz. The benefit amount rises in line with the percentage of unemployment benefits remaining, a figure determined by IPREM (Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income). Yet, there is a special rule for people over 52: 80% of IPREM is preserved, which currently translates to about 480 euros per month.
Because IPREM is updated annually, the exact figure depends on the 2024 General Government Budgets. If those budgets change, the amount could increase accordingly. The detailed figures are explained below for clarity.
As a result, the monthly amount for beneficiaries aged 52 and older remains unchanged despite the recent repeal of some provisions.
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It does not change because the duration during which assistance can be received remains the same under the new decree. The subsidy for citizens over 52 can be collected continuously until a job is found or retirement age is reached.
Subsidy for over 52s: changes to accessing aid
The reform also updated the eligibility criteria for subsidies. Previously, only applicants with income not exceeding 75% of the SMI (Minimum Interprofessional Salary) were considered. The new rules extend eligibility to those with family responsibilities and total household incomes that do not exceed this limit, allowing more people to qualify for support.
Subsidy for people over 52: changes in contribution bases
Additionally, the plan proposed a gradual reduction of the retirement contribution base for new beneficiaries, starting on June 1, 2024, moving from 125% to 105% of the General Social Security Regime minimum base by 2027. The stepwise changes were structured as follows:
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During 2024, the contribution base would be set at 120% of the General Social Security Regime minimum base that has always applied.
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During 2025, it would be 115% of that minimum base.
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During 2026, it would be 110% of the minimum base.
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During 2027, it would be 105% of the minimum base.
These adjustments reflect a planned, gradual phasing in of new contribution levels for the 52-plus subsidy program.
Subsidy for over 52s: changes to accessing aid
Finally, the reform ensures that beneficiaries aged 52 and older can claim the subsidy while employed for a maximum of 180 days, with a reduced economic contribution compared to the full subsidy. This measure allows recipients to take on part-time work without losing their eligibility for subsidies.
In summary, the reform maintains certain protections for older beneficiaries while adjusting income limits, contribution bases, and access rules. For readers seeking context and verification, official government summaries and independent analyses provide structured explanations of how these mechanisms interact with IPREM, SMI, and the broader disability and retirement safety nets. Attribution: government publications and policy analyses provide the core details of the reform’s structure.