How much wages am I entitled to?
A general answer to the question "How much wage am I actually entitled to?" cannot be given. In any case, the minimum wage, which is based on a generally binding collective agreement, plays a certain role. Of course, the prohibition of wage usury applies to employment relationships.
Basically, the minimum wage is a salary, the amount of which is specifically determined. This makes it the lowest legally permissible remuneration. The fee is set on the basis of legal regulations.
Collective bargaining autonomy in Germany - the legislature monitors wage usury
In Germany there is general collective bargaining autonomy. The parties to the collective bargaining agreement can reach agreements on issues relating to employment and remuneration without any state interference. There is no such thing as a minimum wage stipulated by a specific law, as unions have been demanding for years.
- Nevertheless, on the one hand, the legislature expressly provides for the possibility of stipulating agreements in a generally binding collective agreement. On the other hand, there is a ban on usury.
- A regulation for a minimum wage can refer to an hourly or monthly remuneration for full-time employment.
- Minimum wages can appear as national or regional variants. One form that occurs in Germany is sector-specific minimum wages.
Can you imagine making a reasonable living with a minimum wage ...
What is the minimum wage I am entitled to?
In 2012 there were generally binding minimum wages and conditions in 12 industries in Germany. The law obliges everyone, including foreign companies, to comply. If you work in one of these industries, you are entitled to a wage of at least the specified amount.
- The agreements are subject to constant change. New ones are added, old ones lose their validity and disappear. Until they are replaced by follow-up tariffs, it is quite possible that “minimum wage-free periods” will arise.
- "How much wage am I entitled to as a building cleaner or construction worker?" however, it is only one important question that matters in employment. Because it is also about questions of minimum working conditions (vacation, Holiday and Christmas bonus), the regulation of the due date of the minimum wage or the handling of working time accounts.
- Generally binding Minimum wages you can receive, among other things, as employees in the waste management, building cleaning, training and further education sectors as well as painters and varnishers. This also applies to the roofing trade, laundry services, the electrical trade and temporary work.
However, the agreements on the minimum wage cannot hide the fact that more than 20 percent of employees working for a low wage in cosmetic salons and restaurants, for example - far too many, they say Trade unionists. Statisticians even speak of a tendency towards low wages.
