How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your gross monthly salary before taxes
- Select how many months you were employed in the last 30 months
- Indicate whether you receive child benefits (Kindergeld)
- Choose your age bracket
- Results update instantly showing your estimated ALG I benefit and duration
Germany Unemployment Benefit (ALG I) — How It Works
Arbeitslosengeld I (ALG I) is Germany's unemployment insurance benefit for workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own. It replaces a portion of your previous income while you search for new employment.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for ALG I, you must:
- Have worked and paid unemployment insurance for at least 12 months in the last 30 months
- Be registered as unemployed at the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency)
- Be actively seeking work and available for employment
- Not have quit your job voluntarily (without good cause)
Benefit Calculation
ALG I is calculated as a percentage of your previous gross salary:
- 60% of net reference pay for those without children
- 67% of net reference pay for those receiving child benefits
The net reference pay is your gross salary minus an estimated 20% for taxes and social contributions.
Benefit Duration by Employment History and Age
| Months Employed | Under 50 | 50–54 | 55–57 | 58+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
| 24 months | 12 months | 12 months | 12 months | 12 months |
| 30 months | 12 months | 15 months | 15 months | 15 months |
| 36 months | 12 months | 15 months | 18 months | 18 months |
| 48 months | 12 months | 15 months | 18 months | 24 months |
Monthly Benefit Caps (2025)
| Status | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Without children | €2,640 |
| With children (67% rate) | €2,948 |
Who Should Use This Tool?
- Workers recently laid off or expecting layoffs
- Expats planning their financial buffer before job transitions
- Employees comparing severance packages to ALG I entitlements
- HR professionals estimating employee benefit obligations
Important Notes
- This calculator provides estimates only. Official calculations use your exact social security contribution history.
- ALG I is separate from Bürgergeld (citizen's benefit), which is for those who don't qualify for ALG I.
- Your actual benefit is based on your average gross salary over the last 12 months before unemployment.
- You must register as unemployed in person at the Agentur für Arbeit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ALG I and Bürgergeld? ALG I is an earnings-related insurance benefit for those who have paid into the system. Bürgergeld is a basic needs support for those who don't qualify for ALG I or have exhausted it.
How accurate is this calculator? Results are based on 2025 official rates and standard calculation methods. Your actual benefit may vary based on your exact contribution history and individual circumstances.
Is my data stored? No. All calculations happen in your browser. Nothing is sent to any server.
Is this tool free? Yes. Completely free, no login, no limits.