For employees Indication
Unemployment benefit in Germany 2026 (Arbeitslosengeld I)
Unemployment benefit is 60% (67% with a child) of the benefit base: daily gross pay of the last 12 months minus a 20% social security lump sum, income tax and solidarity surcharge.
Result
| Item | Rate | Amount |
|---|
Explanation
We divide the gross pay of the last 12 months by 365 days and calculate income tax and solidarity surcharge with the 2026 PAP for a daily wage. The duration (6 to 24 months) depends on insurance periods and age and is not calculated here. We have not checked the agency’s exact daily calculation against official examples, so the result is an indication.
Note: an indication, not legal or tax advice
This calculation is based on the general statutory rules and the values published for 2026. It is not legal, tax or payroll advice. Collective agreements, employment contracts and works agreements may provide more favourable rules.
Sources and values used
| Item | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Amount | 60% / 67% of the benefit base | SGB III, § 149 (Höhe Arbeitslosengeld) (in German) |
| Assessment pay | gross in the 12-month reference period / days, up to the ceiling | SGB III, § 151 (Bemessungsentgelt) (in German) |
| Benefit base | − 20% social security lump sum − income tax − solidarity surcharge | SGB III, § 153 (Leistungsentgelt) (in German) |
| Month | 30 days | SGB III, § 154 (Berechnung und Leistung) (in German) |
| Further source | Bundesagentur für Arbeit – Arbeitslosengeld (in German) | |
Sources checked on 15 October 2026.