Germany Unemployment Benefit Calculator (Arbeitslosengeld I)
Enter your average net monthly salary and whether you have children to estimate your ALG I benefit.
Reflects 2026 ceiling rates (effective 2026-01-01).
Last checked 2026-09-11 · v1. Tax rules change — verify against an official source before relying on this for a filing.
Source.
Germany Unemployment Benefit Calculator (Arbeitslosengeld I)
Estimate your Arbeitslosengeld I (ALG I) unemployment benefit.
This is an estimate for general informational purposes only, not legal advice. The actual calculation uses your specific tax class and social insurance deductions to derive a precise “Leistungsentgelt” figure via official ALG I tables — this calculator applies a simplified percentage directly to your net salary.
Arbeitslosengeld I replaces 60% of your average net monthly salary from your last 12 months of work (Bemessungsentgelt), rising to 67% if you have at least one child, up to the contribution assessment ceiling.
Example
- With the default values shown above, this calculator returns: Capped Salary (contribution ceiling) ≈ EUR 2,400.00; Replacement Rate ≈ 60; Estimated Monthly ALG I ≈ EUR 1,440.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I receive ALG I?
Typically between 6 and 24 months, depending on your age and how long you contributed to unemployment insurance in the preceding years — older long-tenured workers qualify for longer periods.
Why is there a monthly cap?
ALG I is calculated on earnings only up to the social insurance contribution assessment ceiling (Beitragsbemessungsgrenze); income above that ceiling does not increase your benefit.