# Arbeitslosengeld-Rechner - Comprehensive Documentation

**Last Updated:** 2026-04-08

## Tool Overview

### Basic Information

- **Tool Name:** Arbeitslosengeld-Rechner (Unemployment Benefits Calculator - ALG 1)
- **Slug:** `arbeitslosengeld-rechner`
- **URL:** `https://www.ordio.com/tools/arbeitslosengeld-rechner`
- **Status:** Available
- **Last Updated:** 2026-04-08

### Purpose

Comprehensive calculator for German unemployment benefits (Arbeitslosengeld 1 / ALG 1) for 2026. Calculates unemployment benefit amount, duration, and impact of side income based on previous employment history, income, and personal circumstances. Based on official formulas from the Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency). Legal compliance critical - calculations must match official regulations.

### Use Cases

- **Unemployed Individuals:** Calculate expected unemployment benefits
- **Job Seekers:** Understand benefit eligibility and amount before job loss
- **HR Professionals:** Calculate benefits for employees facing redundancy
- **Financial Planners:** Plan for unemployment scenarios
- **Legal Advisors:** Verify benefit calculations for clients

### Real-World Scenarios

**Scenario 1: Recently Unemployed Person Calculating Benefits**

- **User:** Person who just lost their job
- **Situation:** Was earning €3,500/month gross, worked for 3 years, has 1 child
- **Goal:** Calculate unemployment benefit amount and duration
- **Steps:**
  1. Enter gross income: €3,500/month
  2. Enter employment duration: 3 years
  3. Enter number of children: 1
  4. Enter age: 35
  5. Review calculated benefit amount and duration
- **Result:** Sees €1,750/month benefit (60% of net), 12 months duration
- **Related Tools:** [Brutto-Netto-Rechner](brutto-netto-rechner-documentation.md) (for net calculation), [Einkommensteuer-Rechner](einkommensteuer-rechner-documentation.md) (for tax)

**Scenario 2: Job Seeker Planning Finances**

- **User:** Employee facing potential redundancy
- **Situation:** Want to understand benefits before accepting redundancy package
- **Goal:** Calculate benefits to plan finances during unemployment
- **Steps:**
  1. Enter current salary details
  2. Enter employment history
  3. Review calculated benefits
  4. Compare with redundancy package
  5. Plan finances accordingly
- **Result:** Sees benefit amount and duration, can make informed decision
- **Related Tools:** [Brutto-Netto-Rechner](brutto-netto-rechner-documentation.md) (for net comparison), [Kostenrechner](kostenrechner-documentation.md) (for cost planning)

**Scenario 3: HR Manager Calculating Redundancy Benefits**

- **User:** HR professional processing employee redundancy
- **Situation:** Need to calculate unemployment benefits for employee being made redundant
- **Goal:** Provide accurate benefit information to employee
- **Steps:**
  1. Enter employee's salary details
  2. Enter employment history
  3. Enter personal circumstances (children, age)
  4. Review calculated benefits
  5. Provide information to employee
- **Result:** Sees accurate benefit calculation, can inform employee
- **Related Tools:** [Brutto-Netto-Rechner](brutto-netto-rechner-documentation.md) (for salary details), [Einkommensteuer-Rechner](einkommensteuer-rechner-documentation.md) (for tax impact)

**Scenario 4: Financial Planner Assessing Impact**

- **User:** Financial planner helping client plan for unemployment
- **Situation:** Client considering job change, want to understand benefit eligibility
- **Goal:** Calculate benefits for different scenarios
- **Steps:**
  1. Enter different salary scenarios
  2. Enter different employment durations
  3. Review calculated benefits for each scenario
  4. Compare scenarios
  5. Provide financial planning advice
- **Result:** Sees benefit calculations for different scenarios, can provide advice
- **Related Tools:** [Brutto-Netto-Rechner](brutto-netto-rechner-documentation.md) (for net income), [Einkommensteuer-Rechner](einkommensteuer-rechner-documentation.md) (for tax planning)

### Target Audience

- Unemployed individuals in Germany
- Job seekers planning for unemployment
- HR professionals
- Financial planners
- Legal advisors

### Visual Description

**Hero Section:**

- Layout: Centered hero section with badge, headline, and description
- Badge: "Arbeitslosengeld Rechner" badge
- Headline: Large bold headline "Arbeitslosengeld-Rechner 2026: ALG 1 berechnen" with blue accent
- Description: Paragraph explaining calculator features (2026 rates, duration calculation, side income impact, detailed breakdown, Excel/PDF export)
- Trust Indicators: Badges showing "2026 aktuell", "100% kostenlos", "Excel & PDF Export"
- Background: Subtle dot pattern background

**Visual Examples (To Be Added):**

**Hero Section Screenshot:**

- Location: `docs/guides/tools-pages/screenshots/arbeitslosengeld-rechner-hero.png`
- Description: Full hero section showing badge, headline, trust indicators
- Dimensions: 1920x1080 (desktop), 375x667 (mobile)
- Shows: Complete above-fold content with visual styling

**Calculator Form Screenshot:**

- Location: `docs/guides/tools-pages/screenshots/arbeitslosengeld-rechner-form.png`
- Description: Calculator form showing income, employment history, personal circumstances inputs
- Dimensions: 1920x1080 (desktop)
- Shows: Input fields for gross income, employment duration, children, age, calculate button

**Results Display Screenshot:**

- Location: `docs/guides/tools-pages/screenshots/arbeitslosengeld-rechner-results.png`
- Description: Results section showing benefit amount, duration, breakdown
- Dimensions: 1920x1080 (desktop)
- Shows: Monthly benefit amount, duration in months, detailed breakdown, export options

**Benefit Calculation Flow Diagram:**

- Location: `docs/guides/tools-pages/diagrams/arbeitslosengeld-rechner-flow.svg`
- Description: Flow diagram showing ALG 1 calculation process
- Format: SVG (vector) for scalability
- Shows: Input → Calculation → Output flow with benefit amount and duration calculation

**Calculator Form:**

- Layout: Centered single-column layout with grid for inputs
- Input Fields:
  - Bruttoeinkommen: Number input (€) - previous gross income
  - Beschäftigungsdauer: Number input (months) - employment duration
  - Alter: Number input (years) - age
  - Kinder: Number input - number of children
  - Nebenverdienst: Number input (€) - side income (optional)
  - Weitere Angaben: Additional fields for special circumstances
- Calculate Button: Auto-calculates on input change (debounced)
- Styling: Blue accent color (#4D8EF3), rounded inputs, responsive layout

**Result Display:**

- Layout: Below form, centered
- Results Summary: Large card showing:
  - Primary Result: Large bold display (blue accent) - ALG 1 amount
  - Secondary Results: Summary cards showing:
    - Berechnungsgrundlage
    - Leistungssatz
    - Monatliches ALG 1
    - Dauer (Anspruchsdauer)
    - Nebenverdienst-Abzug (if applicable)
    - Netto-Leistung
- Detailed Breakdown: Expandable sections showing calculation details
- Export Buttons: Excel and PDF export (email gating)
- Styling: White cards, blue accent for totals, responsive layout

### UI/UX Flow

**Initial Load:**

- Page loads with hero section visible
- Calculator form displayed with default values
- Default values:
  - Bruttoeinkommen = 3,000€
  - Beschäftigungsdauer = 12 months
  - Alter = 30
  - Kinder = 0
  - Nebenverdienst = 0€
- No results displayed initially

**Calculation Flow:**

1. User enters inputs (previous income, employment duration, age, children, side income)
2. Calculation runs automatically (debounced, 300ms for numbers)
3. Results display below form
4. User can expand detailed breakdown sections
5. User can export results (Excel/PDF) - email required

**Input Validation:**

- Real-time validation on input change
- Error messages displayed for invalid inputs
- Calculation only runs with valid inputs

## Technical Documentation

### File Structure

- **PHP File:** `v2/pages/tools_arbeitslosengeld_rechner.php` (~1,892 lines)
- **JavaScript Files:** Modular structure in `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/`
  - `constants.js` - 2026 ALG 1 constants (rates, thresholds, duration rules)
  - `utils.js` - Formatting and validation utilities
  - `helpers.js` - Calculation helper functions
  - `calculator.js` - Main Alpine.js component
  - `export.js` - PDF/Excel export functionality (lazy-loaded)
- **CSS:** Uses shared `v2/css/tools-pages.css` plus inline critical CSS

### Calculation Modes

**Single Mode:**

The calculator has one calculation mode that handles all ALG 1 scenarios:

**Mode: ALG 1 Calculation**

- **Visual Description:** Single form with all inputs, comprehensive results display
- **Purpose:** Calculate unemployment benefits (ALG 1) based on previous employment
- **Input Fields:**
  - Bruttoeinkommen: Number input (€), min=0, step=1, placeholder="3000"
  - Beschäftigungsdauer: Number input (months), min=0, step=1, placeholder="12"
  - Alter: Number input (years), min=18, max=67, placeholder="30"
  - Kinder: Number input, min=0, step=1, placeholder="0"
  - Nebenverdienst: Number input (€), min=0, step=1, placeholder="0"
- **Output Fields:**
  - ALG 1 Betrag: Large display (blue accent)
  - Berechnungsgrundlage: Summary card
  - Leistungssatz: Summary card
  - Monatliches ALG 1: Summary card
  - Dauer (Anspruchsdauer): Summary card
  - Nebenverdienst-Abzug: Summary card (if applicable)
  - Netto-Leistung: Summary card
- **Formula:** Complex calculation based on SGB III (Social Code Book III)
- **Calculation Steps:**
  1. Calculate calculation basis (Berechnungsgrundlage): Average gross income from last 12 months
  2. Calculate benefit rate (Leistungssatz): 60% (without children) or 67% (with children)
  3. Calculate monthly ALG 1: Calculation basis × Benefit rate
  4. Calculate duration (Anspruchsdauer): Based on employment duration and age
  5. Calculate side income impact: Deduct side income above threshold
  6. Calculate net benefit: Monthly ALG 1 - Side income deduction
- **Example:**
  - Input: Bruttoeinkommen = 3,000€, Beschäftigungsdauer = 12 months, Alter = 30, Kinder = 0, Nebenverdienst = 0€
  - Calculation:
    - Berechnungsgrundlage = 3,000€ (average gross income)
    - Leistungssatz = 60% (no children)
    - Monatliches ALG 1 = 3,000 × 60% = 1,800€
    - Dauer = 6 months (based on 12 months employment, age 30)
    - Nebenverdienst-Abzug = 0€ (no side income)
    - Netto-Leistung = 1,800€
  - Output: ALG 1 = 1,800€/month for 6 months
- **Edge Cases:** Handles minimum/maximum benefit amounts, duration limits, side income thresholds

### Constants and Thresholds

**2026 Values:**

- **Benefit Rates:**

  - LEISTUNGSSATZ_OHNE_KINDER: 60% (without children)
  - LEISTUNGSSATZ_MIT_KINDERN: 67% (with children)

- **Calculation Basis:**

  - BEITRAGSBEMESSUNGSGRENZE: 8,450€/month (contribution assessment ceiling)
  - Calculation period: Last 12 months of employment

- **Duration Rules (Anspruchsdauer):**

  - Minimum employment: 12 months required
  - Age-based multipliers:
    - Under 50: Standard duration based on employment months
    - 50-54: Extended duration
    - 55+: Maximum duration
  - Maximum duration: 24 months

- **Side Income Thresholds:**

  - FREIGRENZE: 165€/month (free allowance)
  - Above threshold: Deducted from benefit

- **Minimum/Maximum Benefits:**
  - Minimum benefit: Based on standard rates
  - Maximum benefit: Capped at contribution assessment ceiling

**Previous Values (for reference):**

- 2025: Similar rates, thresholds updated annually

### Validation Rules

- Bruttoeinkommen: min=0, step=1, no max limit (but practical limit ~50,000€/month)
- Beschäftigungsdauer: min=0, step=1, integer only
- Alter: min=18, max=67 (retirement age)
- Kinder: min=0, step=1, integer only
- Nebenverdienst: min=0, step=1

### Edge Cases Handled

- Minimum employment duration: 12 months required for ALG 1 eligibility
- Maximum benefit: Capped at contribution assessment ceiling
- Side income: Free allowance of 165€/month, then deducted
- Age-based duration: Extended duration for older workers
- Children impact: Higher benefit rate (67% vs 60%)

### Dependencies

- External Libraries:
  - XLSX.js (v0.18.5) - Excel export
  - jsPDF (v2.5.1) - PDF export
- APIs: HubSpot Forms API (for email collection)
- Alpine.js: Used for reactive UI (version from base/head.php)

### Code Organization

**File Structure:**

- PHP: `v2/pages/tools_arbeitslosengeld_rechner.php` (~1,892 lines)
- JavaScript: Modular structure in `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/`
  - `constants.js` (~100 lines) - All ALG 1 constants
  - `utils.js` (~80 lines) - Formatting utilities
  - `helpers.js` (~150 lines) - Calculation helpers
  - `calculator.js` (~800+ lines) - Main Alpine.js component
  - `export.js` (~300 lines) - Export functionality
- CSS: Shared `v2/css/tools-pages.css` plus inline critical CSS

**Modular Structure:**

- **constants.js:** All 2026 ALG 1 constants, rates, thresholds, duration rules
- **utils.js:** Formatting functions (formatCurrency, formatPercent, formatNumber)
- **helpers.js:** Calculation functions (calculateBerechnungsgrundlage, calculateLeistungssatz, calculateDuration)
- **calculator.js:** Main Alpine.js component with calculation logic, state management
- **export.js:** Excel/PDF export functions (lazy-loaded)

**Code Patterns:**

- Alpine.js reactive data binding (`x-data`, `x-model`, `x-show`)
- Debounced calculations (300ms for numbers)
- Modular JavaScript (window namespace pattern)
- Email gating for exports (localStorage caching)
- Progressive enhancement (works without JavaScript for basic display)

### Functions & Methods

**Main Component Function:**

- Function Name: `arbeitslosengeldCalculator()` (Alpine.js component)
- Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/calculator.js`
- Purpose: Main Alpine.js component with all calculator logic
- Returns: Alpine.js component object with state and methods

**Calculation Functions:**

- `calculateBerechnungsgrundlage()`: Calculates calculation basis
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/helpers.js`
  - Parameters: Bruttoeinkommen, Beschäftigungsdauer
  - Returns: Calculation basis amount
- `calculateLeistungssatz()`: Calculates benefit rate
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/helpers.js`
  - Parameters: Kinder (number of children)
  - Returns: Benefit rate (0.60 or 0.67)
- `calculateDuration()`: Calculates benefit duration
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/helpers.js`
  - Parameters: Beschäftigungsdauer, Alter
  - Returns: Duration in months
- `calculateSideIncomeDeduction()`: Calculates side income impact
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/helpers.js`
  - Parameters: Nebenverdienst, ALG 1 amount
  - Returns: Deduction amount

**Helper Functions:**

- `formatCurrency()`: Formats numbers as currency (€)
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/utils.js`
  - Parameters: amount, includeSymbol
  - Returns: Formatted string (e.g., "1.800,00 €")
- `formatPercent()`: Formats numbers as percentage
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/utils.js`
  - Parameters: decimal
  - Returns: Formatted string (e.g., "60,0 %")
- `formatNumber()`: Formats numbers with German locale
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/utils.js`
  - Parameters: number, decimals
  - Returns: Formatted string

**Export Functions:**

- `exportExcel()`: Exports calculation as Excel file
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/export.js`
  - Parameters: calculator state
  - Data Included: All inputs, all results, calculation breakdown
  - Format: XLSX format with multiple sheets
  - File Name: `arbeitslosengeld-berechnung-[timestamp].xlsx`
- `exportPDF()`: Exports calculation as PDF file
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/export.js`
  - Parameters: calculator state
  - Content Included: Summary, inputs, results, calculation breakdown
  - Layout: A4 portrait, branded header
  - File Name: `arbeitslosengeld-berechnung-[timestamp].pdf`

**Utility Functions:**

- `init()`: Initializes calculator on page load
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/calculator.js`
  - Purpose: Sets default values, loads saved email, initializes calculation
- `calculate()`: Main calculation function
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/calculator.js`
  - Purpose: Triggers calculation, updates results
- `validateInputs()`: Validates all inputs
  - Location: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/calculator.js`
  - Purpose: Checks input validity, sets error messages

**Event Handlers:**

- `@click` handlers: Export buttons, email modal
- `@input` handlers: Auto-calculation on input change (debounced)
- `x-init`: Initializes calculator on page load

### State Management

**Alpine.js State Variables:**

- `bruttoeinkommen`: Previous gross income (€)
- `beschaeftigungsdauer`: Employment duration (months)
- `alter`: Age (years)
- `kinder`: Number of children
- `nebenverdienst`: Side income (€)
- `results`: Calculation results object
- `showResults`: Boolean, whether to show results
- `hasError`: Boolean, whether there's an error
- `errorMessage`: String, error message text
- `emailCollected`: Boolean, whether email has been collected
- `showEmailModal`: Boolean, whether email modal is visible

**Computed Properties:**

- `CONSTANTS`: Getter for ALG 1 constants (throws error if not loaded)
- `UTILS`: Getter for utility functions (throws error if not loaded)
- `HELPERS`: Getter for helper functions (throws error if not loaded)

**Watchers:**

- `$watch('bruttoeinkommen')`: Triggers calculation on input change
- `$watch('beschaeftigungsdauer')`: Triggers calculation on input change
- `$watch('alter')`: Triggers calculation on input change
- `$watch('kinder')`: Triggers calculation on input change
- `$watch('nebenverdienst')`: Triggers calculation on input change

**localStorage:**

- Key: `arbeitslosengeld_export_email`: Stores email address for future exports
- Set: When user submits email in modal
- Read: On page load to pre-fill email modal

**URL Parameters:**

- None currently implemented

## Calculation Logic

### Formula Documentation

**Primary Formula (ALG 1 Calculation - SGB III):**

The German unemployment benefit calculation follows Social Code Book III (SGB III):

```
Step 1: Calculate Calculation Basis (Berechnungsgrundlage)
  Calculation Basis = Average Gross Income from Last 12 Months
  Capped at: Contribution Assessment Ceiling (8,450€/month in 2026)

Step 2: Calculate Benefit Rate (Leistungssatz)
  If Kinder > 0:
    Benefit Rate = 67%
  Else:
    Benefit Rate = 60%

Step 3: Calculate Monthly ALG 1
  Monthly ALG 1 = Calculation Basis × Benefit Rate
  Minimum: Based on standard rates
  Maximum: Capped at contribution assessment ceiling

Step 4: Calculate Duration (Anspruchsdauer)
  Minimum Employment: 12 months required
  Base Duration: Based on employment months
  Age Multipliers:
    - Under 50: Standard duration
    - 50-54: Extended duration
    - 55+: Maximum duration (24 months)
  Maximum Duration: 24 months

Step 5: Calculate Side Income Impact
  Free Allowance: 165€/month
  If Nebenverdienst <= 165€:
    Deduction = 0€
  Else:
    Deduction = Nebenverdienst - 165€

Step 6: Calculate Net Benefit
  Net Benefit = Monthly ALG 1 - Side Income Deduction
```

**Step-by-Step Process:**

1. Validate eligibility (minimum 12 months employment)
2. Calculate calculation basis (average gross income, capped)
3. Determine benefit rate (60% or 67% based on children)
4. Calculate monthly ALG 1 amount
5. Calculate duration based on employment and age
6. Calculate side income deduction (if applicable)
7. Calculate net benefit after side income deduction

### Example Calculation

**Input:**

- Bruttoeinkommen: 3,000€/month (average)
- Beschäftigungsdauer: 12 months
- Alter: 30 years
- Kinder: 0
- Nebenverdienst: 0€

**Calculation:**

1. Calculation Basis = 3,000€ (average gross income, below ceiling)
2. Benefit Rate = 60% (no children)
3. Monthly ALG 1 = 3,000 × 60% = 1,800€
4. Duration = 6 months (12 months employment, age 30)
5. Side Income Deduction = 0€ (no side income)
6. Net Benefit = 1,800€

**Expected Result:**

- ALG 1 Betrag: 1,800€/month
- Berechnungsgrundlage: 3,000€
- Leistungssatz: 60%
- Dauer: 6 months
- Nebenverdienst-Abzug: 0€
- Netto-Leistung: 1,800€/month

**Example with Children:**

- Input: Same as above, but Kinder = 2
- Calculation:
  - Benefit Rate = 67% (with children)
  - Monthly ALG 1 = 3,000 × 67% = 2,010€
- Output: ALG 1 = 2,010€/month for 6 months

**Example with Side Income:**

- Input: Same as first example, but Nebenverdienst = 500€
- Calculation:
  - Monthly ALG 1 = 1,800€
  - Side Income Deduction = 500 - 165 = 335€
  - Net Benefit = 1,800 - 335 = 1,465€
- Output: Net ALG 1 = 1,465€/month after side income deduction

### Legal Basis

- **Sozialgesetzbuch III (SGB III):** Unemployment insurance law
- **Berechnungsgrundlage:** Average gross income from last 12 months
- **Leistungssatz:** 60% (without children) or 67% (with children)
- **Anspruchsdauer:** Based on employment duration and age
- **Nebenverdienst:** Free allowance of 165€/month, then deducted
- **Bundesagentur für Arbeit:** Official regulations and rates

## Content Documentation

### Hero Section

- **H1:** "Arbeitslosengeld-Rechner 2026: ALG 1 berechnen"
- **Description:** "Berechne kostenlos dein Arbeitslosengeld 1 (ALG 1) für 2026. Aktuell nach offiziellen Formeln der Bundesagentur für Arbeit. Inkl. Höhe, Dauer, Nebenverdienst & Export."

### Educational Content Sections

1. **How It Works**

   - Step 1: Enter previous income, employment duration, age, and children
   - Step 2: View results (benefit amount, duration, side income impact)
   - Step 3: Export as Excel or PDF

2. **Eligibility Information**

   - Minimum employment duration: 12 months
   - Contribution requirements
   - Age requirements

3. **Benefit Calculation**

   - Calculation basis explanation
   - Benefit rate explanation (60% vs 67%)
   - Duration calculation rules

4. **Side Income Rules**
   - Free allowance: 165€/month
   - Deduction calculation
   - Impact on benefits

### FAQ Section

- **Total FAQs:** Extracted from schema markup
- **FAQ Topics:**
  - ALG 1 calculation: How benefits are calculated
  - Eligibility: Who qualifies for ALG 1
  - Duration: How long benefits last
  - Side income: Impact of part-time work
  - Amount: How much benefit you receive
  - Application: How to apply for ALG 1

**Sample FAQs:**

1. **Wie wird Arbeitslosengeld 1 berechnet?**

   - Answer: ALG 1 is calculated based on your average gross income from the last 12 months. The benefit rate is 60% (without children) or 67% (with children). The calculation basis is capped at the contribution assessment ceiling (8,450€/month in 2026).

2. **Wie lange habe ich Anspruch auf ALG 1?**

   - Answer: Duration depends on your employment history and age. Minimum employment of 12 months is required. Duration ranges from 6 to 24 months, with extended duration for older workers (50+).

3. **Wie wirkt sich Nebenverdienst auf ALG 1 aus?**

   - Answer: Side income up to 165€/month is free (Freigrenze). Income above this threshold is deducted from your ALG 1 benefit. For example, if you earn 500€/month, 335€ (500 - 165) is deducted from your benefit.

4. **Wie hoch ist das Arbeitslosengeld 1?**

   - Answer: ALG 1 is 60% of your previous gross income (without children) or 67% (with children). The benefit is calculated from your average gross income over the last 12 months, capped at the contribution assessment ceiling.

5. **Wie beantrage ich Arbeitslosengeld 1?**
   - Answer: You must register as unemployed with the Bundesagentur für Arbeit immediately after job loss. Application can be made online or in person. Required documents include employment certificates and proof of income.

### Meta Tags

- **Title:** "Arbeitslosengeld-Rechner 2026: ALG 1 berechnen - Ordio"
- **Description:** "Berechne kostenlos dein Arbeitslosengeld 1 (ALG 1) für 2026. Aktuell nach offiziellen Formeln der Bundesagentur für Arbeit. Inkl. Höhe, Dauer, Nebenverdienst & Export."
- **Keywords:** "arbeitslosengeld rechner, alg 1 rechner, arbeitslosengeld berechnen, alg 1 berechnen, arbeitslosengeld höhe, arbeitslosengeld dauer, nebenverdienst alg 1"

### Schema Markup

- **WebPage schema:** Page metadata, breadcrumbs
- **HowTo schema:** Step-by-step calculation process
- **FAQPage schema:** FAQ questions and answers
- **BreadcrumbList schema:** Navigation breadcrumbs

### Internal Linking

- Links to: Other calculators, Ordio product pages
- Link count: ~5-10 internal links

## Change Log

### Update History

**2026-01-08:**

- Created comprehensive documentation
- Documented calculation logic and formulas
- Extracted FAQs from schema markup
- Documented technical implementation
- Added calculation examples

**Previous Updates:**

- Tool created with 2026 rates
- Rates updated annually for new regulations

## Annual Update Checklist

**For Annual Updates (typically January):**

- [ ] Update "Last Updated" date
- [ ] Update constants section with new values (rates, thresholds, duration rules)
- [ ] Update example calculations with new values
- [ ] Update content sections (H1, descriptions, FAQs) with new year
- [ ] Update 2026 Update Requirements section (mark complete)
- [ ] Remove any "(pending verification)" notes
- [ ] Verify all legal references are current (SGB III)
- [ ] Update meta tags if needed
- [ ] Update schema markup if needed
- [ ] Test all calculations with new values
- [ ] Document changes in change log

## 2026 Update Requirements

### Immediate Updates (Required for Jan 1, 2026)

**Constants/Values:**

- [x] Benefit rates verified for 2026 (60%/67%)
- [x] Contribution assessment ceiling updated (8,450€/month)
- [x] Side income threshold verified (165€/month)
- [x] Duration rules verified
- [x] All rates and thresholds verified

**Content:**

- [x] Updated year references: "2025" → "2026"
- [x] Updated meta tags
- [x] Updated FAQs with 2026 information

**Priority:** High (Legal compliance critical)

### Throughout 2026 Updates

**Scheduled Updates:**

- None currently scheduled

### Monitoring Requirements

- **Source:** Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) regulations
- **Frequency:** Annually (typically December for next year)

## Testing

### Test Cases

**Normal Cases:**

- Test 1: 3,000€ income, 12 months, age 30, no children → Expected: 1,800€/month for 6 months
- Test 2: 3,000€ income, 12 months, age 30, 2 children → Expected: 2,010€/month (67% rate)
- Test 3: 5,000€ income, 24 months, age 50 → Expected: Higher benefit, extended duration

**Edge Cases:**

- Edge case 1: Less than 12 months employment → Expected: Not eligible for ALG 1
- Edge case 2: Very high income (>8,450€) → Expected: Capped at contribution assessment ceiling
- Edge case 3: Side income above benefit → Expected: Net benefit reduced accordingly

### Code Analysis

**Key Functions Location:**

- Main component: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/calculator.js:1-800+`
- Calculation functions: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/helpers.js:1-150`
- Export functions: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/export.js:1-300`
- Helper functions: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/utils.js:1-80`

**Constants Location:**

- Calculation constants: `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/constants.js:1-100`
- Configuration constants: Same file

**Calculation Logic Flow:**

1. Step 1: Input received (debounced)
2. Step 2: Validation (check eligibility, inputs)
3. Step 3: Calculate calculation basis
4. Step 4: Calculate benefit rate
5. Step 5: Calculate monthly ALG 1
6. Step 6: Calculate duration
7. Step 7: Calculate side income impact
8. Step 8: Format and display results

**State Management Flow:**

- Initialization: Default values set, email loaded from localStorage
- Updates: Reactive updates via Alpine.js on input change
- Dependencies: Constants, Utils, Helpers must be loaded first

**Event Handler Flow:**

- Input events: Debounced calculation triggers
- Calculation triggers: Automatic on input change
- Export triggers: Email collection if needed, then export generation

### Export Functionality

**Excel Export:**

- **Trigger:** Click "Excel" button in results section
- **Email Gating:** Required if email not in localStorage
- **Data Included:**
  - Inputs: Bruttoeinkommen, Beschäftigungsdauer, Alter, Kinder, Nebenverdienst
  - Results: Berechnungsgrundlage, Leistungssatz, Monatliches ALG 1, Dauer, Nebenverdienst-Abzug, Netto-Leistung
  - Breakdown: Calculation steps
- **Format:** XLSX format, multiple sheets (Summary, Details, Calculation Breakdown)
- **File Name:** `arbeitslosengeld-berechnung-[timestamp].xlsx`
- **Function:** `exportExcel()` in `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/export.js`

**PDF Export:**

- **Trigger:** Click "PDF" button in results section
- **Email Gating:** Required if email not in localStorage
- **Content Included:**
  - Header: Ordio branding
  - Summary: Key results
  - Inputs: All entered values
  - Results: Detailed breakdown
  - Footer: Date, disclaimer
- **Layout:** A4 portrait, branded styling
- **File Name:** `arbeitslosengeld-berechnung-[timestamp].pdf`
- **Function:** `exportPDF()` in `v2/js/arbeitslosengeld/export.js`

**Email Gating Process:**

- **When Required:** First export attempt
- **Modal Display:** Overlay modal with email input
- **Email Validation:** Format validation (email regex)
- **Storage:** localStorage key `arbeitslosengeld_export_email`
- **Pre-filling:** Email loaded from localStorage on page load
- **Error Handling:** Validation errors displayed in modal

### Results & Insights

**Result Display:**

- **Primary Results:** ALG 1 Betrag (large display), Berechnungsgrundlage, Leistungssatz, Monatliches ALG 1, Dauer
- **Secondary Results:** Nebenverdienst-Abzug, Netto-Leistung
- **Result Formatting:** Currency (€), percentages (%), German number format
- **Result Styling:** Blue accent for primary result, summary cards with icons

**Result Breakdowns:**

- **Calculation Breakdown:** Shows calculation steps
- **Duration Breakdown:** Shows how duration was calculated
- **Side Income Breakdown:** Shows side income impact

**Insights Provided:**

- **Benefit Amount:** Shows monthly ALG 1
- **Duration:** Shows how long benefits last
- **Side Income Impact:** Shows how part-time work affects benefits

### Browser Testing Results

**Desktop Browsers:**

- **Chrome:** Tested, status: Working
- **Firefox:** Tested, status: Working
- **Safari:** Tested, status: Working
- **Edge:** Tested, status: Working

**Mobile Testing:**

- **iOS Safari:** Tested, status: Working, responsive layout
- **Android Chrome:** Tested, status: Working, responsive layout
- **Mobile UI Differences:** Stacked layout, touch-friendly inputs
- **Mobile Interactions:** Touch-optimized inputs

**Responsive Design:**

- **Desktop (>1024px):** Full layout, side-by-side inputs
- **Tablet (768px-1024px):** Adjusted grid, stacked cards
- **Mobile (<768px):** Single column, stacked inputs, full-width cards
- **Breakpoints:** 768px, 1024px

**Accessibility:**

- **Keyboard Navigation:** Full keyboard support, tab order logical
- **Screen Reader:** ARIA labels, role attributes, live regions
- **ARIA Labels:** All inputs labeled, results announced
- **Focus Management:** Focus moves to first input on mode switch
- **Color Contrast:** WCAG AA compliant

**Performance:**

- **Page Load Time:** <2s (optimized)
- **Calculation Speed:** <50ms (debounced)
- **Export Speed:** <1s for Excel, <2s for PDF
- **Large Data Handling:** Efficient for all income ranges

### Export Testing

- Excel: Tested, working, proper formatting
- PDF: Tested, working, proper layout

## Maintenance Notes

### Known Issues

- None currently documented

### Future Improvements

- Add URL parameter support for pre-filling inputs
- Add share functionality
- Add historical comparison (compare 2025 vs 2026)
- Add eligibility checker before calculation

### Related Tools

**Complementary Tools:**

- **[Brutto-Netto-Rechner](brutto-netto-rechner-documentation.md)** - Calculate gross-to-net salary

  - Use together when: Need to calculate net income for benefit calculation
  - Example workflow: Calculate net income → Calculate unemployment benefit → Financial planning

- **[Einkommensteuer-Rechner](einkommensteuer-rechner-documentation.md)** - Calculate income tax

  - Use together when: Need to understand tax implications of benefits
  - Example workflow: Calculate benefits → Calculate tax → Total financial planning

- **[Minijob-Rechner](minijob-rechner-documentation.md)** - Calculate Minijob net salary
  - Use together when: Calculating benefits with side income (Minijob)
  - Example workflow: Calculate Minijob income → Calculate benefit impact → Total income

**Sequential Tools:**

- **[Kostenrechner](kostenrechner-documentation.md)** - Calculate living costs

  - Use after: Calculating benefits
  - Use before: Financial planning

- **[Arbeitstage-Rechner](arbeitstage-rechner-documentation.md)** - Calculate working days
  - Use after: Calculating benefits
  - Use before: Planning job search activities

## FAQ (structured data)

- **SSOT:** `v2/data/tools-faqs/arbeitslosengeld_rechner.json` (visible accordion + post-footer `FAQPage` JSON-LD).
- **Data-driven refresh (2026-04-08):** GSC query export, GA4 tools aggregate, SISTRIX keywords/PAA, competitor analysis → `docs/content/tools/arbeitslosengeld-rechner/DATA_DRIVEN_SYNTHESIS.md`. Runbook: `docs/content/tools/_templates/TOOL_FAQ_REFRESH_CHECKLIST.md`.
- **After each deploy:** [Google Rich Results Test](https://search.google.com/test/rich-results) on the canonical URL; FAQPage `@context` must resolve to `https://schema.org`.

## References

### Official Sources

- **Bundesagentur für Arbeit:** https://www.arbeitsagentur.de (official regulations)
- **SGB III:** Social Code Book III (unemployment insurance law)

### Documentation Files

- [Tool Documentation Template](../TOOL_DOCUMENTATION_TEMPLATE.md)
- [Tools Inventory](../../content/tools/TOOLS_INVENTORY.md)
- [Tools Pages Guide](../README.md)
- [Einkommensteuer-Rechner Documentation](./einkommensteuer-rechner-documentation.md) - Related calculator
- [Brutto-Netto-Rechner Documentation](./brutto-netto-rechner-documentation.md) - Related calculator