← Blog29 August 20253 min readDLP24DEUAENRU
For workers
Night, Sunday and Holiday Work: Surcharges Explained
If you work at night, on Sundays or on holidays, you may wonder whether you get more pay. The answer depends on contract and collective agreement.
What the law says
For night work the Working Hours Act requires adequate compensation, either paid days off or a surcharge (section 6 ArbZG). The law names no fixed percentage. The minimum wage itself contains no surcharges.
Collective agreement and contract
Specific percentages are in the collective agreement or employment contract. Ask about the rules before you start and have them confirmed in writing.
Tax-free surcharges
If surcharges are paid, they are tax-free up to certain limits (section 3b Income Tax Act), for example up to 25 percent for night work, up to 50 percent for Sunday work and up to 125 percent for holiday work. The condition is that they are paid on top of the basic wage.
How to check your payslip
- Are hours and surcharge types right?
- Are surcharges shown separately?
- Does the rate match the agreement?
Rest periods
Breaks and rest periods also apply to night and weekend work. Sunday work is only allowed in certain sectors.
FAQ
Am I always entitled to surcharges?
Not automatically. It depends on contract and collective agreement; for night work there is a right to adequate compensation.
Are surcharges included in the minimum wage?
No, surcharges are usually agreed on top.
Who explains my payslip?
Talk to us. We explain every line.