When there is not enough income to live on, many people look for a part-time job to make ends meet each month. The figures are alarming: while there were 1.16 million people with part-time jobs in 2003, there are now more than twice as many. Most of the so-called patchwork jobbers work in the retail and hospitality sectors.

Who is affected by the part-time job phenomenon?

The majority of part-time jobbers are women, as they often work in lower-paid jobs such as hairdressers, florists or nurses. Many part-time workers and single mothers are also affected. But pensioners, students and even academics are also increasingly in need of part-time jobs.

What can help?

It remains to be seen whether the introduction of the minimum wage of 8.50 euros per hour will change anything. Six million employees are paid below this limit, according to the German Institute for Economic Research. However, experts warn that many bosses will use tricks such as unpaid overtime to circumvent the minimum wage. The part-time job trend is therefore likely to continue in the future.

Patchwork jobbers: what am I allowed to do and what not?

Can I simply earn some extra money with a part-time job?

In principle, everyone has the right to a part-time job or a second job. However, most employment contracts stipulate that you must inform your employer of any additional income.

Is the boss even allowed to prohibit secondary employment?

As a rule, your employer cannot object to a second job. The only exception is if the side job jeopardizes his interests, for example if you also work for a competitor or want to work as a waitress at night and can no longer concentrate on your main job during the day due to tiredness.

What is the maximum number of hours I can work per week?

You are not allowed to work more than a total of 48 hours per week - main job and part-time job added together.

Is there a limit to how much I can earn?

If you have a main job with social insurance, you are allowed to have one mini-job on the side. You can earn up to 450 euros per month tax-free. As a rule, only the employer pays tax on this. Jobs with higher earnings, on the other hand, are - like the main job - subject to social security contributions and must also be taxed.

Can I use my vacation for the part-time job?

As vacation is intended to be used for recreation, it is generally not possible to work part-time during this time. However, if the boss has permitted a permanent part-time job, this may also be continued while on vacation. However, it cannot then be topped up