Unemployment benefit
The unemployment benefit is granted and paid by Sodra once the Employment Service assigns unemployed status. From 1 July 2026 you need at least 12 months of unemployment insurance record within the last 24 months. It is paid for up to 9 months and consists of a constant part (23.27% of the minimum wage) plus a variable part: months 1–3 — 38.79% of your average wage, months 4–6 — 31.03%, months 7–9 — 23.27%.
Who this applies to
Step by step
Register with the Employment Service
Online via the e-government gateway or at a branch. When registering, also file the benefit application — the data goes to Sodra automatically (or submit the GPS18 form in your Sodra account).
Sodra calculates the benefit
The average wage is calculated over 30 months of income, starting 2 months before unemployed status. The decision comes within 10 working days; the benefit is granted from day 8 after status. The cap is recalculated quarterly (Q1 2026 — 1,405.45 EUR).
Receive the payments
Paid for the previous month between the 20th and month-end. Every 3 months the variable part decreases (38.79% → 31.03% → 23.27%). Getting a permanent job, or a suitable offer from the Employment Service, ends the payment.
Common mistakes
Frequently asked questions
How large is the benefit?
The constant part is 23.27% of the minimum wage; the variable part is 38.79% of your average wage in months 1–3, 31.03% in 4–6 and 23.27% in 7–9. The Q1 2026 cap is 1,405.45 EUR, recalculated quarterly.
How long is it paid?
Up to 9 months. It can be extended if you were ill or have less than 5 years to retirement.
Will I get it after quitting voluntarily?
Yes, but payment starts only after a 3-month waiting period.