Vacation money in Germany: Only 44% of employees benefit!

Vacation money in Germany: Only 44% of employees benefit!

The question of vacation pay is of great importance for many employees, especially in times of rising costs for travel and accommodation. In a current analysis, The Hans-Böckler-Foundation Employees in the private sector are entitled to vacation pay. These figures come from a comprehensive online survey that included over 67,000 employees in the period from May 2024 to April 2025.

The availability of vacation pay varies greatly and depends on various factors. For example, 72 percent of employees receive vacation pay in tariff -bound companies, while they are only 34 percent in non -collective bargaining. The difference between large and small companies is particularly striking: 59 percent of employees in large companies (over 500 employees) receive vacation pay, compared to only 36 percent in small companies (under 100 employees).

regional and gender differences

The regional differences are also remarkable. In western Germany, 46 percent of employees enjoy vacation pay, while in East Germany there are only 33 percent. In addition, women with 39 percent have less chances of vacation pay compared to their male colleagues, in whom the quota is 48 percent.

The amount of the vacation allowance varies significantly depending on the industry and collective agreement. For example, employees in agriculture in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania can expect only 186 euros, while employees in the wood and plastic industry in Westphalia-Lippe can receive up to 2,820 euros. In Bavaria, for example, 240 euros are paid in the hotel and restaurant industry and 195 euros in Saxony.

historical development of vacation entitlements

The importance of relaxation and vacation has changed over the centuries. People have recognized the need for resting phases since the Stone Age. Over the course of time, the legislature has established regulations on a recovery vacation, such as the legally set 24 working days a year in the Federal Vacation Act, which is due to the historical development of working hours. According to ver.di , the number of days off in the course of time has increased significantly over time with only three times at the beginning and soon Collective agreement regulations up to six weeks of regular vacation in many industries.

Currently, the statutory vacation only granted work after six months. However, workers can also claim proportionate vacation during this waiting period. Employers also have the option of granting voluntary additional vacation days that go beyond the legal claim. It is particularly important that vacation Invariably has to be taken in the current calendar year, otherwise it usually expires on March 31 of the following year, provided that no transfer has been agreed. These legal framework are specified in the Federal Vacation Act, so Anwalt.de .

Overall, the analysis of the holiday claims and money shows that many employees in Germany have to do without important financial support, which is particularly worrying against the background of rising living costs. The search for improvements in this area therefore remains a central concern of unions and social organizations.