Change in the AMS system regarding additional income: "Either you go to work or..."
Starting from January 1, 2026, the Austrian Public Employment Service (AMS) will implement a significant change affecting thousands of unemployed individuals in the country. Under the new rules, most people receiving unemployment benefits will not be allowed to work part-time or earn additional income, even if it is below the minimum marginal income threshold. The government hopes this measure will encourage more people to return to full-time jobs more quickly.
However, AMS has specified some exceptions. Individuals who have held a part-time job alongside a fully insured job for at least 26 weeks can continue in their employment. Those who have received unemployment benefits or emergency assistance for 365 days are also allowed to work part-time for no more than 26 weeks. Long-term unemployed individuals over the age of fifty or those with disabilities are exempt from this ban. Additionally, those who return to work after illness or rehabilitation for 52 weeks are allowed to work part-time for a limited period.
The citizens' reactions varied sharply. One man in an interview said he understands the difficulty of working one's whole life only to suddenly find oneself unemployed. He added that they should be allowed to "earn some extra money," but within reasonable limits. Meanwhile, another woman felt that it depends on the amount of unemployment benefits a person receives, saying, "If the benefits are good, there is no need for extra work, but if they are low, they should be allowed to work to cover their expenses."
In contrast, others completely rejected the idea. Another man asserted that unemployment benefits should be sufficient to cover basic living needs. He added, "If they are not sufficient, then the government should address that," pointing out that it is not right for a person to receive unemployment benefits while working at the same time. He also questioned whether this decision would actually push people towards full-time jobs, saying, "Many unemployed people do not refuse to work, but they simply cannot find jobs."
Another woman expressed a similar viewpoint, stating firmly: "You either work or receive assistance; you can't do both at the same time." She expressed hope that the new law would encourage more unemployed individuals to consider returning to the job market. Despite differing opinions, what is certain is that the new AMS reforms have sparked widespread debate in Austria about fairness, job opportunities, and how to best support job seekers.