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How to apply for unemployment benefits (2026)

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Cost

Free

Free. The benefit is between 60-70% of your base salary.

Time at office

0 minutes (online) / 30 min (in person)

Estimated time

15-30 days for resolution and first payment

Quick summary

Complete guide on how to apply for the contributory unemployment benefit (paro) in Alicante, Community of Valencia. Deadlines, requirements, amount, and how to do it online with SEPE in 2026.

Required documents

  • Valid DNI or NIE

    Valid identification document.

  • Employment termination certificate

    Document issued by the employer at the end of your employment relationship. It is automatically provided by the company, but if you do not receive it, SEPE can request it from your former employer.

  • Bank account details (IBAN)

    Bank account in your name for direct payment of benefits.

  • Job demand card (DARDE)

    You must be registered as a job seeker at the regional employment service before or during the application process.

  • ?

    Up-to-date work history Optional

    Not always necessary, but recommended to verify your contribution days. SEPE can check it directly in some cases.

    ⚠️ Recommended for verifying the days contributed

0 €
Free. The benefit is between 60-70% of your base salary. €0.00
€0.00
€0.00

: 2026

Step by step

  • 1

    Register as a job seeker at the regional employment service

    Go to official site

    First, register as a job seeker at the Community of Valencia's public employment service online. This registration generates your DARDE card, which is required to apply for unemployment benefits.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Register on the same day you stop working or within a few days. Losing one day of contribution means losing that day's payment."

  • 2

    Apply for unemployment benefits online (recommended)

    Go to official site

    You have 15 business days from your last workday to apply without losing any days. Apply online at SEPE's e-office, by phone (900 818 018, free), or in person at a SEPE office.

    !

    Expert tip

    "The online process is the fastest. Identify with Cl@ve PIN (free) or digital certificate."

  • 3

    Submit your employment termination certificate

    SEPE needs this certificate to calculate your base salary. If you do not have it from your former employer, SEPE will request it directly. Do not wait — apply even if you do not yet have the certificate.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Check that the employment termination certificate correctly reflects the reason for leaving (layoff, end of contract, voluntary resignation). The reason affects whether or not you qualify for unemployment benefits."

  • 4

    Renew job demand card monthly

    Go to official site

    Once your benefit is granted, you must renew your job demand card (DARDE) monthly online or in person at a SEPE office. If you do not, they can suspend your benefits.

    !

    Expert tip

    "Set up reminders in the SEPE app to avoid missing monthly renewals. The exact date depends on when you registered as a job seeker."

Offices and service points - Alicante

SEPE Office — Community of Valencia

Find your nearest office using SEPE's online finder: sepe.es/oficinas

900 818 018
Free hotline: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 14:00. Check local hours of your office on the SEPE website.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I have to apply for unemployment benefits?
You have 15 business days from your last workday. If you wait longer, you will lose those days of payment. For example, if you wait 10 business days before applying, you will lose 10 days of benefit.
How much money do I get in 2026?
For the first 180 days, you receive 70% of your base salary. After day 181, it’s 60%. The base salary is calculated based on the average of your last 180 working days’ contributions. There are minimum and maximum limits.
How many unemployment days can I claim?
It depends on the number of contribution days in the last 6 years. With 360 contribution days, you have a right to 120 unemployment days. The maximum is 720 days (2 years) if you have contributed at least 2,160 days.
Can I claim unemployment benefits if I left my job voluntarily?
Generally no. Voluntary departure does not qualify for the contributory unemployment benefit. You may be eligible for an unemployment subsidy in certain special cases (domestic violence, illness, caring for a family member). Consult SEPE about your specific situation.
Can I work while receiving unemployment benefits?
Yes, but there are conditions. You can combine part-time work with the benefit (the amount is reduced proportionally). You may also use the benefit to become self-employed. If you work full-time without informing SEPE, they will stop your payments and potentially require repayment.

This procedure in other cities

Official sources and useful links

This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check the official source for current information.