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How long does ALG1 last at age 60?

17th December 2025

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Find out here how long does ALG1 last at age 60.

Unemployment benefits play an important role for people aged 60 and over.
This group can receive benefits for up to 24 months, which provides substantial financial support. When applying for unemployment benefits, tax class and deductions are crucial, as they directly affect the amount received. In addition to the financial aspect, the system also ensures that older unemployed individuals are not left without support. Understanding these regulations makes access to benefits easier and is particularly important during the preparation phase for retirement.

How long can you receive unemployment benefits at age 60?

In Germany, people aged 60 and over can receive unemployment benefits for up to 24 months, provided they were previously employed in jobs subject to compulsory social insurance for at least 48 months. The duration of benefit entitlement depends largely on the length of prior insurance. For example, if you worked in insured employment for 36 months, your entitlement is usually 18 months. This regulation therefore provides a degree of financial security, especially for older job seekers.

The Federal Employment Agency reviews individual eligibility requirements and offers further guidance if needed. It is advisable to register as unemployed at an early stage in order to make optimal use of all available benefits. General statistics show that older workers often require longer benefit periods, which can be best addressed through individual counseling. This is particularly important to ensure a smooth transition into new employment.

Calculating unemployment benefits

To calculate your unemployment benefits, follow these steps:

  • Determine net income: Calculate your average daily net income.

  • Apply the percentage rate: Depending on your family situation, unemployment benefits amount to either 60% of net income (without a child) or 67% (with a child).

  • Monthly calculation: Multiply the daily net income by 30 to calculate the monthly unemployment benefit.

A helpful tool is an unemployment benefit calculator. This online tool allows for a simple calculation without entering personal data, giving you a quick and convenient overview of your expected entitlement.

Tips for applying for unemployment benefits

To successfully apply for unemployment benefits, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Early registration: Register as unemployed in good time, ideally in advance, to secure your entitlement.

  • Required documents: Make sure you have all necessary documents ready, including proof of identity (e.g., ID card or passport), records of previous employment, and proof of income.

  • Termination agreement: If a termination agreement is in place, this may affect your unemployment benefits, so review the conditions carefully.

  • Use online platforms: Make use of the Federal Employment Agency’s online services to speed up the application process.

  • Meet deadlines: Pay close attention to deadlines to avoid delays in receiving benefits.

Following these steps helps ensure that your application for unemployment benefits proceeds smoothly.


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