Self-employed workers face uncertainty over 2027 social security contributions and benefits
Self-employed groups say the 2027 contribution reform remains stalled, leaving them unsure of future payments and promised benefit improvements.
Nearly three months before year-end, self-employed workers still lack clarity on the amount they will owe to Social Security in 2027 and on the timing of promised benefit upgrades, such as unemployment support and better treatment of parental and medical leaves. The 2022 reform, signed by former minister José Luis Escrivá, intended to base contributions on actual earnings, but its implementation stalled after a rejected proposal by the conservative ATA within CEOE.
Representative bodies UATAE, UPTA and the CCOO have repeatedly called on Minister Elma Saiz to restart the negotiation table, emphasizing that the issue also concerns broader social protection. Secretary of State Borja Suárez said the matter will be addressed within the 2027 General State Budget and requested patience until after the vacation period. Without a renewed social dialogue, one outlet contribution gap and pension disparity between employees and freelancers could persist, affecting future retirement income and social benefits.
Why it matters
The stalled reform could keep freelancers paying low contributions while receiving inadequate pensions and benefits.
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