Second jobs in Germany: How to secure financial advantages!

Second jobs in Germany: How to secure financial advantages!

In Germany, the numbers show a clear trend: in 2023, around 4.5% of the workforce, which corresponds to around 1.9 million people, had a second job. The motives for such a part-time job are varied. Many people pursue financial goals, while others claim a part-time job out of personal interest or for professional development. This is reported by the South Germans.

However, the legal framework for pursuing second jobs is complex. Employers and the tax office have a significant influence on employees' secondary activities. While every employee has the freedom to practice his or her profession according to the Basic Law (Article 12 of the Basic Law), certain requirements must be met. The employer can request that the part-time job be reported, especially if the main job could be affected.

Legal framework

Employers are not allowed to stipulate a general ban on secondary activities in the employment contract. However, it is permissible for employees to have to register their secondary activities, especially if these are considered potentially conflictual according to the contractual regulations. A typical arrangement often involves the employer's consent, which can only be withheld if there are legitimate interests, as reported.

The information that employers need to evaluate a part-time job is diverse. This includes the planned activity, the company as well as the working hours and the scope of the secondary activity. These are essential factors that help assess the influence on the main job. Particularly in the case of competing activities, the employer has the right to prohibit the secondary activity if it endangers company interests.

Working time regulations and tax aspects

An important prerequisite for working a second job is the working time regulations. The total working hours from the main and part-time job may not exceed 8 hours per working day and 48 hours per week. In addition, a rest period of 11 hours after the end of work is required. Employees must also be careful not to endanger their main employer by carrying out a secondary job while on paid leave.

From a tax perspective, secondary activities are also relevant. Income from a second job is subject to tax and social security contributions. Mini-jobs that bring in up to 556 euros per month are exempt from social security, while income above this amount can be registered as a midi-job, which means lower taxes for the employee. For regular second jobs, billing is in tax class VI, which leads to high deductions. A tax return is necessary because the tax office adds both salaries to calculate income tax.

The division of working hours between the main and part-time job is individual and often depends on personal obligations. Common working time models include part-time work on the weekend, a four-day week with a part-time job on Friday or Saturday, and evening excursions to additional jobs. This offers more flexibility, especially for part-time employees.

Overall, it can be said that the topic of secondary employment has many facets for both employees and employers. While financing certain lifestyles is a reason for many employees, legal and tax conditions must always be kept in mind. You can find comprehensive information about this at Financial tip.