Part of the topic: 💶 Taxes & salary
Unemployment benefit calculator 2026 (Arbeitslosengeld I)
Enter your average gross salary of the last 12 months. The calculator follows § 153 SGB III: daily wage, 20% social-insurance flat rate, wage tax per the official 2026 algorithm and solidarity surcharge – then 60% (67% with children).
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🔒 Runs entirely in your browser – nothing you enter is uploaded or stored.
How to use it
- Enter your average monthly gross salary of the last 12 months (including regular bonuses).
- Choose the tax class valid at the start of the year and whether you have a child.
- Read the daily and monthly benefit and the individual deductions.
Who is entitled to unemployment benefit I?
You are entitled if you are unemployed, have registered as unemployed with the employment agency and meet the qualifying period: at least 12 months of insured employment within the last 30 months. You must also be available for work and actively look for a job.
A side job of up to 15 hours a week is allowed; €165 a month of the earnings remain free of deduction.
Worked example
€3,500 average gross, tax class I, no child: €1,416.90 unemployment benefit per month (€47.23 per day, 60% rate).
Last checked: October 2026 · Based on: §§ 149–153 German Social Code III. Found a mistake? Use the form below – we fix confirmed errors and update the date.
Frequently asked questions
How much unemployment benefit will I get?
60% of the standardised net wage, or 67% if you or your partner have a child that counts for tax purposes. The net wage is calculated with flat rates, so it differs from your last payslip.
How long is ALG I paid?
Usually 12 months after at least 24 months of contributions in the last 30 months. Older people with longer insurance periods get up to 15, 18 or 24 months.
Is unemployment benefit taxed?
It is tax-free but subject to the progression clause, which raises the tax rate on other income in the same year.