How to change the bank account for your benefits

How to change your SEPE bank account

If you need to change the bank account where you receive your unemployment benefits or subsidies from the SEPE (Servicio Público de Empleo Estatal, Spain's state employment service), you have three official ways to do so. This process is free of charge. You must provide the full IBAN of your new account and be its holder.

1. Online through your Personal Area. This is the quickest way if you have digital identification. Go to the SEPE's electronic headquarters and access your Área Personal (Personal Area). You'll need to identify yourself using a Cl@ve system user and password, an electronic DNI (DNIe), or a digital certificate. Within your Personal Area, you can manage your details, including your bank account information.
2. By phone via 060. You can call the citizen information line 060 to request the change. However, this option has limitations. You can only use this service if your new bank branch is in the same province where you currently receive benefits. Also, if your new account is with an online-only bank, you cannot use the 060 service for this change. For online banks, you must use the Área Personal or visit an office. Keep in mind that calls to 060 may incur a cost, depending on your phone operator.
3. In person at a benefits office. If the online or phone options don't suit you, you can change your bank account at a SEPE benefits office. You must book an appointment first. This is called a cita previa (prior appointment). You can book your cita previa online through the SEPE website or by calling the automated appointment service on 91 926 79 70.

What you'll need to change your bank account

Before you start the process, make sure you have the following information ready:

• Your full IBAN. This is the International Bank Account Number for your new bank account.
• You must be the account holder. SEPE only pays benefits into accounts where the recipient is a named holder. They do not make payments into third-party accounts.

When does the bank account change take effect?

SEPE prepares benefit payments in advance. The payment of SEPE benefits usually happens on the 10th of each month. If the 10th is a public holiday, payment will be made on the next working day. A change made just a few days before this date might mean your payment still goes to your old account for that month. To avoid issues, make the change as soon as possible. Do not close your old bank account until you have received your first payment in the new one.

You can check the status of your unemployment claim and payment details in your Área Personal.

Common problems and how to fix them

Payment went to the old account

If you've changed your bank account but the monthly payment still went to your old one, it's likely because the payroll was prepared before your change was processed. This is normal. Your next payment should go to the new account. Always keep your old account open until you see the first payment arrive in your new account.

Incorrect IBAN entered

If you accidentally entered the wrong IBAN, you must correct it as soon as possible. Use one of the three official methods (Área Personal, 060, or in-person appointment) to update your bank details with the correct IBAN. Make sure to double-check the number to prevent further delays.

Account not in your name

SEPE only deposits benefits into bank accounts where you are a named account holder. If you provided an account that is not in your name, SEPE will not be able to process the payment. You must update your details with an account where you are a holder. You can also request a benefit certificate to confirm your payment details.

Remember to keep your jobseeker registration updated (sellar el paro), as this is a separate process managed by your regional employment service.