Unemployment can affect any worker, and in Spain the public employment service SEPE plays a key role in providing support during periods of joblessness. SEPE, the Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal, is the agency responsible for managing employment policies in Spain, including unemployment subsidies. This public service offers not only financial assistance but also career guidance and training to improve employability.
There are several unemployment subsidies in Spain designed to fit different circumstances. Some of them include:
– Contributory benefit. Aimed at those who have lost work and have paid into the system for at least 360 days within the last six years.
– Unemployment subsidy. Available to those who have exhausted the contributory benefit or do not meet the requirements for it.
– Activation Income for Insertion (RAI). Support for long-term unemployed, people over 45, or individuals with disabilities.
– Extraordinary Unemployment Subsidy (SED). For those who have exhausted other aids and are in special need situations.
– Subsidy for people aged 52 and over. For unemployed individuals who have already used up other unemployment aid.
How to apply for unemployment online
Applying for unemployment online simplifies access to subsidies. Here is how the process typically works:
1. Access to the electronic headquarters. Visit the SEPE website and navigate to Procedures and electronic services, then People. There select Explore your benefit.
2. Digital identity. An authentication method and password are required through Cl@ve, a digital certificate, or a DNIe. When selecting Access Applications, personalized options will appear based on the user’s situation.
3. Complete the application. Only the suitable application options will be shown according to individual circumstances. A SEPE PDF can be consulted to review all available types of requests. Once the correct option is identified, open it and fill in the form. Each request type (contributory benefit, special artist benefit, unemployment subsidy, RAI, and others) includes annexes with usage guides that can be downloaded.
4. Validation. After completing and reviewing the form, the system will display a page showing the sections and subsections with color indicators: green for correct, orange for warning, and red for error. If any error is present, the system only allows continuation after it is corrected. A brief summary of personal data, plus tabs with legal texts, obligations, data protection, and other details is shown and recommended to read.
5. Signature. The form is signed using Cl@ave user credentials, a digital certificate, or a DNI electronic certificate.
6. Receipt. When all steps are completed successfully, the system confirms that the online submission was successful and offers options to save a printed copy (PDF) of the submitted request, download a PDF receipt of the process, or access extra information about the beneficiary obligations.
Submitting the request online is typically faster and eliminates the need to travel. It also allows 24/7 access to check the status of the request in real time.