Unemployment insurance

Brief definition

The Unemployment insurance is a branch of Social security in Germany. It provides financial security for employees in the event of unemployment.

It is regulated in the Third Book of the Social Code (SGB III) and is financed by contributions.

Financing

Contributions to unemployment insurance are generally borne jointly by employers and employees (parity financing).

The calculation is based on the pensionable earnings up to the respective applicable assessment ceiling.

Services

  • Unemployment benefit for unemployment
  • Promoting employment
  • Vocational further training services
  • Consultancy and brokerage services

Meaning in payroll

In the payroll run, the unemployment insurance contributions are based on the Gross social insurance contribution calculated.

  • Determination of the employee's share
  • Determination of the employer's contribution
  • Deduction within the scope of social security contributions

The contributions, along with the other social security contributions, are paid to the responsible collection agency.

FAQ

What is unemployment insurance?

A branch of social insurance that provides financial security for employees in case of unemployment.

Who pays the contributions?

Employers and employees generally share the contributions.

How is unemployment insurance taken into account in the payroll run?

The contributions are calculated based on the gross social security contribution base and are paid within the scope of social security.

Conclusion

Unemployment insurance is an essential component of social security in Germany. For companies, the correct calculation and payment of contributions during payroll is a central part of proper payroll accounting.

Author
the BAS editorial team

This glossary entry is for general information only.

Brasser Accounting Solutions GmbH is a specialised accounting service provider and part of a corporate group with Quint GmbH (tax consultancy/auditing) and Service Place Årjäng AB (Swedish tax office). BAS exclusively performs services according to § 6 No. 3 and 4 StBerG and does not provide tax or legal advice.