Apply for short-time work benefits
Wage replacement benefits from the Employment Agency for employees experiencing a temporary, significant loss of work, applied for by the employer.
How to proceed
- 1
Reporting Lost Work Time
The employer must report the loss of work in writing to the Employment Agency.
- 2
Apply for short-time work benefits
Monthly, after fees have been billed, with a billing statement.
- 3
Payment to employees
The employer pays the short-time work allowance and is reimbursed by the employment agency.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 months
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • The notice of the work stoppage was not submitted by the last day of the month in which the stoppage begins
- • Billing statement with errors, resulting in a delayed refund
Common reasons for rejection
- • Significant loss of work not sufficiently justified/proven
- • Claims for lost wages are reimbursed only after the end of the month
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Employers for their employees subject to social security contributions in the event of a significant, temporary loss of work (e.g., a shortage of orders).
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 months
Success rate
approx. 85.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •The notice of the work stoppage was not submitted by the last day of the month in which the stoppage begins
- •Billing statement with errors, resulting in a delayed refund
Common reasons for rejection
- •Significant loss of work not sufficiently justified/proven
- •Claims for lost wages are reimbursed only after the end of the month
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Related services
Read more
Handle Apply for short-time work benefits online
Submit your application directly online – without visiting an office.
Start online application