Recent government changes to unemployment benefits have sparked wide discussion. A key measure involved increasing the subsidy applied during the first six months: 570 euros (95% of IPREM) for the initial period, 540 euros (70% of IPREM) from months six to twelve, and 480 euros (80% of IPREM) after the first year.
The scope of the aid has been broadened to include temporary agricultural workers and individuals aged 45 and older, potentially adding around 400,000 new beneficiaries. Additionally, the reform permits unemployed individuals to combine receiving benefits with earnings for up to six months.
Officials indicated that these changes would take effect after their publication in the official state bulletin. As of June 1, 2024, they apply to new beneficiaries from that date onward. Those already receiving subsidies will continue under the pre-existing regulations until their current entitlement expires.
In the announcement there was no change to the benefit amount for people aged 52 and over, with 480 euros still allocated, equivalent to 80% of IPREM. However, the official publication later clarified that the retirement contribution base would decrease for those turning 52.
Currently, the contribution base for unemployed workers sits at 125% of the minimum base set by the General Social Security Regime. The reform introduces a gradual reduction, applicable only to those who begin receiving the benefit on or after June 1, 2024. The managing body will use the following contribution bases in coming years:
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During 2024, the contribution base will be 120% of the minimum base of the General Social Security Regime.
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During 2025, the contribution base will be 115% of that minimum base.
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During 2026, the contribution base will be 110% of the minimum base.
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During 2027, the contribution base will be 105% of the minimum base.
A notable addition in the new regulation is that unemployment benefits can be drawn alongside employment. For individuals receiving subsidies who enter the labor market on a full-time or part-time basis, the benefit acts as a supplement to employment support rather than a separate payment.
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Further details in the official bulletin specify that the amount of the employment support supplement will be determined according to a schedule that correlates the time of day with the quarter of the year in which the recipient is employed. The maximum period for charging this additional payment remains six months (180 days). [BOE]