With the arrival of the month of December, millions of Italian employees and pensioners await the imminent crediting of the thirteenth month’s salary, a traditional event which represents an important economic support in view of Christmas and end-of-year expenses. But when will it be paid, how much and who is entitled to it?
When does it have to be paid?
By law, the thirteenth month’s salary must be paid by December. For private sector employees, payment usually takes place a few days before Christmas, between 15 and 24 Decemberdepending on the collective agreement and company policies. Pensioners, however, receive the amount together with the December pension, which is generally credited in the first days of the month.
How much is the thirteenth?
The amount of the thirteenth corresponds, generally speaking, to an additional month of the basic salary or gross pension. However, the actual amount received depends on several factors:
- Working period: for those who worked all year, the thirteenth will be equal to a full month’s salary. For those hired during the year, the amount will be proportional to the months actually worked.
- Tax and social security withholdings: the net amount is reduced by the IRPEF rates and any contributions due.
- Specific contracts: in some cases, collective agreements provide for particular calculation methods which may influence the amount.
Who is entitled to it?
The thirteenth is recognized to:
- Employees of the private and public sector, regardless of the contract (fixed-term or permanent).
- Pensioners who receive social security or disability pensions.
- Domestic workerssuch as housekeepers and carers, provided that the employment relationship is regularly declared.
However, self-employed workers and those who have non-subordinate collaboration relationships are not entitled to it.
Help with Christmas expenses
The thirteenth salary represents a fundamental income for many families, especially in a period of increasing price increases. According to estimates from consumer associations, a good part of this sum will be allocated to Christmas expenses, gifts, and end-of-year utilities, with a small margin reserved for savings.
An eagerly awaited appointment, therefore, which helps to close the year with a bit of economic relief, in a context in which any help is precious.