Avoiding Work on September 1: Lawful Means for Refusal

The Ministry of Labor has proposed three legal ways to take a day off on September 1, 2025. Here's what you need to know:

Taking Time Off Without Pay (Compensatory Day) It is possible to negotiate with your employer for a day off on September 1, 2025, for family and other valid reasons. However, the specifics may vary based on your company's collective agreement and local regulations. In some cases, this may mean taking a compensatory day, which is not paid.
Unpaid Leave The second option is unpaid leave. If your company's collective agreement and local regulations allow it, you may be able to take unpaid leave on this day. It is important to note that in some cases, you might be paid for this day.
Using Part of Your Annual Leave The third legal way not to work on September 1 is by using part of your annual leave. This compensatory day can be taken if you have worked on a previous weekend, holiday, or if you have done overtime work. This paid mini-vacation can be added to your vacation schedule.

When it comes to taking time off work on September 1, 2025, it is advisable to check with your HR department for the specific process in your organization. The Ministry of Labor recommends doing the same to understand the specific rules that apply to your situation.

For parents, the question of how to take their child to school on that day is a common one. Each organization may have its own rules for getting a free day on September 1, so it's important to discuss this with your employer as well.

It is unclear whether there are any other means of taking a day off on September 1, 2025, outside of the options proposed by the Ministry of Labor. The authority responsible for specifying the options for being unemployed on September 1, 2025, and regulating the use of these options is the "Bundesagentur für Arbeit" (Federal Employment Agency). They manage unemployment benefits and their payment schedules, such as the payment of unemployment benefits for August 2025 on September 1, 2025, and apply the relevant regulations for claims and disbursements.

In summary, if you need to take a day off on September 1, 2025, it's essential to discuss this with your employer and understand the specific rules that apply to your situation. Whether you choose to take a compensatory day, unpaid leave, or use part of your annual leave, make sure to do so in writing and follow your organization's procedures.