From January 2025, Germany’s legal minimum wage will rise, bringing changes for those employed in mini-jobs. This means higher earnings without losing mini-job benefits…

Mini-jobs are a popular option for students, pensioners, and part-time workers, offering additional income without full social security contributions. Currently, around 3.39 million people in Germany are employed under this system.

Monthly earnings limit increases to €556

Due to the minimum wage increase from €12.41 to €12.82 per hour, mini-job workers will be able to earn more while staying within the mini-job regulations.

• The monthly earnings cap rises from €538 to €556.
• On a yearly basis, this allows for maximum earnings of €6,672.

Despite the higher wage, the maximum working hours per month remain the same. In 2025, mini-jobbers will be allowed to work up to 43 hours per month (or 43 hours and 20 minutes to be exact) without exceeding the earnings threshold.

If your employer pays a higher hourly wage, you may need to work fewer hours to stay within the mini-job category.

Tip: It is advisable to calculate your allowed working hours carefully each month to ensure you remain eligible for mini-job status.

When does a mini-job become a midi-job?

If monthly earnings from one or multiple jobs regularly exceed €556, the employment status automatically shifts from a mini-job to a midi-job.

With the new minimum wage, the midi-job earnings range will extend from €556.01 to €2,000 per month. This is an increase from the previous €538.01–€2,000 range.

Social security and tax implications

Mini-jobbers are only required to contribute to pension insurance, but they can opt out if they choose.

Midi-jobbers enjoy full health, pension, unemployment, and long-term care insurance but pay reduced social security contributions compared to full-time employees.

Full earnings from a midi-job still count towards future pension entitlements.

For those working under mini-job contracts, it’s essential to stay informed about the new regulations to maximize benefits while avoiding unwanted status changes.