Unemployed as self-employed
What does it mean?
Being unemployed as self-employed (ledig som selvstændig) involves complex rules. Self-employed people can join certain a-kasser and qualify for dagpenge if they meet membership and work hour requirements including self-employed activity.
When closing or pausing a business, you must deregister activities (CVR, VAT), settle accounts and document cessation. Partial self-employment while receiving benefits is restricted — income affects payment and availability assessments.
The job centre and a-kasse assess whether you are genuinely unemployed and available for employment vs. continuing de facto self-employment. Transparent reporting of income and hours is mandatory.
Seek specialised advice from your a-kasse, accountant and possibly legal counsel before mixing benefits and business activity. Wrong handling can lead to repayment claims.
Magnus Villumsen
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