Loss of activity cover: unemployment benefit for the self-employed
What it is and whether it's worth paying for.
In a nutshell
- Loss of activity cover (cese de actividad) is a benefit for self-employed people who have to close: similar to unemployment benefit.
- Today the contribution for it is included in almost every self-employed person's payment.
- During the flat rate you don't contribute for loss of activity.
Self-employed people don't get unemployment benefit like employees do, but they have something similar: the loss of activity benefit.
When it's paid
- If you close because of losses or economic reasons.
- Because of force majeure, such as a fire or a flood.
- If you lose the licence you need to work.
- Because of gender-based violence or divorce, if you worked in the family business.
- In some cases of self-employed people who depend on one main client.
You must have contributed for loss of activity for at least 12 months in a row before closing and be up to date with payments.
Do I contribute for it?
Since 2019 the loss of activity contribution has been included in most self-employed people's payment. The most common exception is the flat rate: during that time you don't contribute for it. In our procedure we only ask you when you can choose.
Your mutua handles it. You apply for the benefit through the mutua you chose when you registered.
Frequently asked questions
How much is paid?
In general, 70% of the base you've contributed on in recent months, for a period that depends on how long you've contributed for loss of activity.