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Emergency

Side job during unemployment benefit: how much may you earn extra?

During unemployment benefit (ALG 1) you may earn extra to a limited extent. Two things are important: a side job may as a rule comprise fewer than 15 hours per week, otherwise the unemployment lapses, and there is an allowance up to which the earnings are not credited.

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Additional earnings remain free of crediting up to an allowance (as a rule 165 euros per month). Anything above that is credited toward the unemployment benefit.
If you work 15 hours or more per week, you no longer count as unemployed, and then the entitlement lapses. Stay below this limit with the side job.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Note the hours limit

    Keep the side job below 15 weekly hours so that the unemployment continues to exist.

  2. 2

    2. Use the allowance

    Earnings up to the allowance remain free of crediting. Plan your additional earnings accordingly.

  3. 3

    3. Report the side activity

    Report the side activity to the Employment Agency in advance; this is mandatory and prevents reclaims.

  4. 4

    4. Check the crediting

    If the earnings exceed the allowance, check the crediting on the notice. Necessary work-related expenses reduce the creditable amount.

How to spot the scam

  • You work 15 hours or more and lose the entitlement.
  • You do not report the side activity and risk a reclaim.
  • The earnings above the allowance are credited incorrectly.

Frequently asked questions

How much may I earn alongside ALG 1?

Up to an allowance (as a rule 165 euros per month) the additional earnings remain free of crediting. Earnings going beyond that are credited toward the unemployment benefit.

Does an hours limit apply?

Yes. A side job must comprise fewer than 15 hours per week. From 15 hours you no longer count as unemployed, and the entitlement to unemployment benefit lapses.

Do I have to report the side job?

Yes, you have to report the side activity to the Employment Agency, ideally in advance. This way you avoid reclaims and sanctions. Submit proof of hours and earnings.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.