Javier, Spanish Self‑Employed Bricklayer, on Sick‑Leave Benefits and Business Practices

Javier, a 45‑year‑old self‑employed worker in Spain who cleans portals, has been working for 12 years without taking a sick day because his net profit of about €1,200 per month would not cover the loss of income. He explains that the Spanish Self‑Employed Regime (RETA) does provide a temporary disability benefit, but the amount is limited: 60 % of the regulatory base from day 4 to day 20 and 75 % from day 21 onward for common illnesses, with the higher rate applying from day 1 for work‑related accidents.

In a separate post, Javier – known on Instagram as @javijam and originally a bricklayer – shares advice for other freelancers, stressing the need to disconnect from the phone, avoid debt, and operate only with available cash. He recounts learning the trade from his father, building his own crew, and navigating economic crises by keeping expenses low and maintaining financial discipline.