For freelancers, the threat of an involuntary halt to business is a major concern. Fortunately, Spain offers a specific benefit that acts as a safety net: unemployment benefits for self-employed individuals. This article explains in detail how this aid, also known as ‘self-employed cessation benefit’ (prestación por cese de actividad de autónomos), works in 2025, who can apply, and the updated amounts you can receive.
What is the Self-Employed Cessation Benefit?
The self-employed cessation benefit is a contributory payment managed by the National Social Security Institute (INSS) in Spanish Instituto Nacional de la Seguridad Social and collaborating mutual insurance companies. It is designed to provide financial protection to self-employed workers who must cease their activity involuntarily. This mechanism is equivalent to the unemployment benefits (paro) received by salaried employees.
Beyond the monthly financial support, this benefit allows the self-employed individual to maintain their Social Security rights and access guidance and training to re-enter the workforce or start a new business.
Key Requirements to Apply in 2025
To access this benefit, freelancers must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be registered with the Special Regime for Self-Employed Workers (RETA).
- Have paid contributions for the cessation of activity for at least 12 continuous months immediately prior to the cessation.
- Prove the cessation was due to justified causes, such as financial losses exceeding 10% of the previous year’s income (excluding the first year of business), technical issues, force majeure, gender violence, or divorce.
- Be up-to-date on all Social Security payments.
- Not have reached the standard retirement age unless you do not meet the requirements for a pension.
- Sign a commitment to activity that includes an active job search and participation in training.
How Much Will You Receive? The 2025 Amounts
The amount of the benefit is directly linked to your regulatory base, which is the average of your contribution bases from the 12 months before you ceased activity.
In 2025, the amount is set as follows:
- 70% of the regulatory base for the first 6 months.
- 50% of the regulatory base from the seventh month until the benefit ends.
Example: If your average contribution base is €1,200, you would receive €840 for the first six months and €600 from the seventh month onward.
Minimum and Maximum Limits:
- Minimum: €660 per month (without dependents) / €880 (with dependents).
- Maximum: Up to €1,575 (without dependents) / up to €2,150 (with more than two dependents).
Duration of the Benefit
The duration of the benefit depends on your previous contribution period:
How to Apply for the Self-Employed Cessation Benefit
You must submit your application within one month of the effective cessation of your activity. The process is done electronically through the collaborating mutual insurance company you are affiliated with or directly on the INSS electronic headquarters.
Steps to follow:
- Access the platform using a digital certificate, Cl@ve PIN, or electronic DNI.
- Fill out the application form.
- Upload supporting documentation (quarterly tax declarations, income/expense ledger, deregistration from the IAE, etc.).
- Sign the commitment to activity.
If approved, the first payment will be issued the month after your application is submitted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I work while receiving the self-employed cessation benefit? No. The benefit is incompatible with any employment or self-employed activity. If you find a new job, you must notify the authorities, and the aid will be suspended.
Is it mandatory to contribute for this benefit? Yes. Since the reform of the Spanish contribution system in 2023, all freelancers are required to contribute for the cessation of activity.
Can I become self-employed again after receiving this aid? Yes. Once you have exhausted the benefit or if you voluntarily choose to stop it, you can re-register with RETA and resume your activity without any problem.
If you are a freelancer facing a difficult time, it is crucial to know your rights and options. The self-employed cessation benefit is not just financial aid but a tool to help you regain your footing and start a new venture with more strength. Staying informed is your best defense against the unexpected challenges of the entrepreneurial path.
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