Arbeitslosengeld I (ALG I) is the contributory unemployment benefit in Germany, paid by the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) upon job loss.
Amount and duration
- 60% of the previous net salary (67% with at least one child)
- Duration: 6 to 24 months depending on age and contribution period
- Duration increases with age: from 50+ up to 15 months, from 55+ up to 18 months, from 58+ up to 24 months
Entitlement requirements
- At least 12 months of contributions within the last 30 months
- Registered as unemployed with the employment agency
- Available for placement
Tax treatment
ALG I is tax-free but subject to the Progressionsvorbehalt. A tax return is therefore recommended (often mandatory).
Sources: §§ 136–147 SGB III, Bundesagentur für Arbeit.