Unemployment Benefit in Spain: Amount, Duration and How to Apply
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15 June 2026 · 5 min read
Everything you need to know about contributory unemployment benefit: how the amount is calculated, how long it lasts by months contributed and how to apply to the SEPE.
Requirements to access the benefit
- •At least 12 months of contributions in the last 6 years
- •Legal unemployment situation (dismissal, end of temporary contract…)
- •Not of standard retirement age
- •Registered as a jobseeker with the SEPE
How long does the benefit last?
Duration depends on months contributed in the last 6 years: 12–17 months → 4 months; 18–23 → 6 months; 24–29 → 8 months; up to a maximum of 24 months for those who contributed more than 72 months (6 years).
How much is received?
The regulatory base is the average of the unemployment contribution bases for the last 180 days (6 months) before becoming unemployed. For the first 180 days, 70% of that base is paid; from day 181, 50%. Minimum and maximum caps apply depending on whether you have dependent children.
Application deadline
The benefit must be applied for within 15 working days of becoming unemployed to avoid losing benefit days. Applications can be made online via the SEPE electronic office, by phone or in person by appointment.
The actual benefit is determined by the SEPE. Amounts may vary due to personal circumstances and regulatory updates.
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