Unemployment benefits in Germany (ALG I) complete FAQ guide #

Losing your job can be stressful, but in Germany, the unemployment insurance system provides financial security through Arbeitslosengeld I (ALG I). This benefit is designed for employees who have paid into the German social security system and meet specific contribution requirements. ALG I is not the same as Bürgergeld (citizen’s allowance), it is a short-term benefit based on your previous salary and work history. Whether you are returning from abroad, transferring benefits from another EU country, or navigating issues like resignation, illness, or health insurance coverage, the rules can be complex.

This FAQ guide answers the most common questions about eligibility, payments, waiting periods, and special cases, helping you understand your rights and obligations under German unemployment law.

Can I transfer unemployment benefits from another EU country to Germany?

Yes. If you worked long enough in another EU or EEA country, you can transfer your unemployment benefit rights to Germany. Bundesagentur für Arbeit Arbeitslosengeld im Ausland / U1 & U2

• You must request an official authorisation (often the U1 or U2 form) from your home country before leaving.
• When you register at the Agentur für Arbeit in Germany, submit this authorisation. This way, your previous contributions can count toward your eligibility here.

I worked in Germany, then moved abroad. Can I still claim ALG I when I return?

• Yes, if you meet the 12 months in the last 30 months contribution rule and you apply on time. If you leave Germany and come back within 18 months, your previous German contributions may still count.
• Example: You worked 9 months in Germany, then lived abroad for 15 months that’s 24 months total. This is still within the 30-month window, so you may be eligible.
• Unemployment benefits

How can I calculate how much unemployment benefit I will receive?

The Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) offers an online calculator.

• It uses your average daily gross salary over the last 12 months.
• It factors in taxes and applies a higher rate (67%) if you have children. You can find the calculator on the Agentur für Arbeit website

Who pays my health insurance during the waiting period (Sperrzeit)?

It depends on whether you have public or private health insurance:

• Public insurance: The first month after your job ends is still covered under your normal contributions. After that, during any waiting period, the Agentur für Arbeit pays your premiums.
• Private insurance: The first month is usually free under your contract. After that, you must pay your premiums yourself until your ALG I starts, then the Agentur für Arbeit takes over.

Does Kurzarbeit (short-time work) affect my unemployment benefits?

No. Periods spent on Kurzarbeit are treated as normal working time for ALG I purposes. Bundesagentur für Arbeit – Kurzarbeitergeld

• Your benefit amount is calculated as if you worked your full contracted hours.
• The duration of your benefits is also unaffected.

What happens to ALG I if I am sick or pregnant?

You must submit a doctor’s note (Krankschreibung) if you’re ill. ALG I continues for the first six weeks of illness, after that, health insurance takes over with Krankengeld.

Can I get unemployment benefits if I didn’t work in Germany long enough?

Yes. If you have insufficient contributions for ALG I, you might still be eligible for Bürgergeld, depending on your financial need and residence status

What happens if I resign from my job voluntarily?

In most cases, voluntarily quitting triggers a 3-month Sperrzeit, meaning you won’t get ALG I during that time. Valid exceptions include quitting for serious health reasons, workplace injustice, or family relocation.

Important Note

This FAQ is for informational purposes only, based on common situations and official guidelines. Always confirm the details with your local Agentur für Arbeit or a legal advisor, as individual cases may vary.

See our guide how to find a job in Germany?