Unemployment funds

You can get unemployment benefits (dagpenge) from the unemployment fund, if you lose you job. However, this requires that you are a member of an unemployment fund, and that they approve you as a recipient of unemployment benefits.

An unemployment fund offers:

• Career guidance
• Advice on job search (personal advice and courses)
• Opportunity for receiving benefits for up to 3 months if you want to apply for jobs in another EEA country

Trade unions have unemployment funds

The different trade unions have their own unemployment funds, but you do not have to be a member of a trade union to receive unemployment benefits.

The membership fees for unemployment funds vary, but the is on average DKK 420 per month and is tax deductible.

Unemployment benefits

You are entitled to unemployment benefits (dagpenge) for up to 2 years if you are a member of an unemployment fund.

If you have taken out an unemployment insurance with an unemployment fund, you will be guaranteed a monthly payment if you lose your job. 

How much do I get?

Your benefits will be calculated based on your previous pay. You can get up to 90 percent of your previous work income but no more than DKK 3.940 per week.

This means that you will get different rates depending on where you are in your professional life. If you have questions regarding the specific amount, please contact your unemployment fund.

For how long can I receive unemployment benefits?

Generally, you can receive unemployment benefits for 2 years. Unemployment benefits are paid out in portions, and this means you can choose to pause the payment and thus get the period in which you can get benefits extended at the other end. However, you must use up these portions within 3 years from the first day of unemployment.