On November 1, the bulk of the unemployment benefit reform (Royal Decree-Law 2/2024) came into force, which improves the amount of the benefit, makes the requirements for accessing it more flexible and expands the number of beneficiary groups.
With the implementation of Royal Decree-Law 2/2024, which came into force on May 23, 2024, the provisions on unemployment benefits have formally entered into force on November 1, 2024, inaugurating a series of significant reforms that seek to improve access and flexibility to these benefits.
Key developments and implications for applicants and beneficiaries
We summarize the main developments and their implications for applicants and beneficiaries.
Elimination of the waiting period and simplification of access requirements
One of the most notable changes is the elimination of the one-month waiting period to apply for unemployment benefits. This measure speeds up access to aid, facilitating a quicker response for those facing unemployment. In addition, the concept of partial benefits is eliminated for those who worked part-time in the last 180 days, which extends eligibility to a greater number of people in diverse situations.
Extension of the application period and adjustments to the calculation of rights
Applicants will now have up to six months to process their application, an extension that provides flexibility in the management of the subsidy. In addition, the right to the subsidy will begin to be computed from the date of the application, eliminating the previous system of “days consumed” and thus reducing the complexity in calculating benefits.
Simplification of income requirements and reduction of recognition periods
Another important step forward is the elimination of the double requirement of lack of income, which affected both the applicant and his/her family unit. This will allow the evaluation processes to be less restrictive and more inclusive. In addition, the period of recognition of the subsidy has been reduced to one quarter, at which point an extension must be requested, maintaining flexibility and periodic monitoring.
Responsible declaration and adjustments in income compatibility
Beneficiaries must submit a declaration of their income and, additionally, submit their personal income tax return annually, ensuring accurate monitoring of the financial situation of each beneficiary.
Supplement to support employment and compatibility with vocational training
Among the most innovative changes is the employment support supplement, which will allow the subsidy to be combined with work for a maximum of 180 days, thus promoting an effective labour transition. This change is aimed at encouraging labour reintegration and providing additional help in the first steps towards a new job. Similarly, the compatibility of unemployment benefits with scholarships and aid linked to vocational training activities is established.
Unification of protection for temporary agricultural workers and expansion of coverage of depletion subsidies
The reform also brings unemployment protection for temporary agricultural workers into line with that of other groups, simplifying and facilitating access to it. In addition, coverage of the exhaustion subsidy is extended to those under 45 years of age, eliminating the requirement of family responsibilities when they have exhausted a contributory benefit of at least 360 days.
Specific requirements for receiving subsidies and new regulation of amounts
The eligibility criteria for receiving subsidies are specified, including those who have exhausted their contributory benefits, workers with insufficient contributions, emigrants returning from outside the European Economic Area, and victims of gender or sexual violence. The amounts of the subsidies have been set at 95% of the Public Indicator of Multiple Effects Income (IPREM) for the first six months, equivalent to 570 euros per month.
Subsidies for people over 52 years of age and maintenance of the Active Insertion Income (RAI)
Subsidies for people over 52 years of age remain at 80% of the IPREM, approximately 480 euros, with no changes to their structure. The Active Insertion Income (RAI) continues for beneficiaries prior to November 1, 2024, maintaining support for this group.
Summary of the main changes in unemployment benefits
| Modification | Description |
| Elimination of the waiting month | Immediate access to the subsidy without having to wait a month. |
| Flexibility in the calculation of rights | The subsidy starts from the date of application, eliminating the “days consumed.” |
| Elimination of family income deficiency | Only the applicant’s income is considered, not that of his or her family unit. |
| Employment support supplement | It allows you to work up to 180 days without losing your subsidy. |
| Extension to six months for application | More time to submit the subsidy application. |
| Compatibility with vocational training | Subsidy compatible with training scholarships. |
| Unified protection for agricultural | Homogenization of protection with the rest of the workers. |
| Exhaustion allowance for <45 years | Extended coverage without family dependents requirement. |
| New regulation of amounts | First six months at 95% of IPREM (€570); those over 52 years of age at 80% (€480). |
| RAI maintenance | Continues for beneficiaries prior to November 1, 2024. |
Contact this professional office for any questions or clarifications you may have on this matter.
