For a German mini-job with an earnings limit, the regular average amount you earn is important. The number of hours you can work therefore depends on your hourly wage. At a higher hourly rate, fewer hours fit under the same earnings limit.
Calculate hours from earnings and hourly pay
A simple formula is: monthly hours = target monthly earnings ÷ hourly wage. At €500 per month and €15 per hour, this is about 33.33 hours. To estimate pay instead, multiply hours by the hourly wage.
What is the 2026 limit?
For 2026, Germany’s Minijob-Zentrale lists a monthly earnings limit of €603 and a statutory minimum wage of €13.90 per hour. The limit is linked dynamically to the minimum wage. Always check the official Minijob-Zentrale guidance on the earnings limit before planning, as figures can change at the start of a new year.
Use the mini-job calculator to estimate monthly earnings and possible hours. The hourly wage calculator converts salary and working time; the working hours calculator subtracts breaks from a shift.
Regular earnings matter
Classification is not based only on one isolated month; expected regular earnings are important. Unpredictable excess earnings may be permitted under specific conditions. Whether a job remains a mini-job depends on the circumstances. The Minijob-Zentrale also explains exceptions and the transition zone for earnings above the mini-job limit.
Keep working-time records
Record hours and pay carefully. Compare expected earnings with the current limit and take account of other jobs and relevant extra payments. Your employer or the Minijob-Zentrale can clarify an individual case.
The figures above apply to 2026. Check the official source for later years. This guide is not individual legal or payroll advice.
How many hours are possible in 2026?
At the statutory minimum wage of €13.90 and a monthly mini-job earnings limit of €603, the simple calculation gives about 43.38 hours per month (€603 ÷ €13.90). This is a guide for an evenly distributed schedule. A higher hourly wage means fewer possible hours. The relevant test also considers actual regular and occasional earnings during the employment year.
Why check the limit every year?
The earnings limit is linked to the minimum wage and may change. Always check the current Minijob-Zentrale guidance before changing your contract or working hours.