Spanish health lawyer Marina Alaminos has detailed what text messages sent by the National Institute of Social Security mean for workers on sick leave.
Receiving an automated text message from the agency, known as the INSS, during temporary medical leave often creates confusion among workers, particularly when the notification mentions a doctor appointment, an extension, or a permanent disability file.
One common text message informs workers of a mandatory appointment with INSS medical inspectors. Alaminos explained that these reviews allow the agency to evaluate a worker's health progression during temporary disability. She recommended that individuals attending an inspection bring all available clinical documents to justify that they remain unfit for work.
Temporary disability extensions and key timelines
Another text message notifies workers that the INSS has granted an extension of temporary disability leave. This extension occurs after a worker reaches the initial 365-day limit of medical leave, extending it by up to 180 additional days if recovery is expected during that period.
Once the 365-day threshold passes, the INSS becomes the sole authority entitled to extend leave, order a medical discharge returning the worker to employment, or initiate a permanent disability case.
When temporary disability exceeds 545 days, workers may receive a text message stating that the agency has opened or proposed a permanent disability case file.
Navigating permanent disability claims and deadlines
Alaminos stressed that a text message announcing a permanent disability file does not mean a pension has been approved. Under Social Security rules, reaching the maximum temporary leave limit simply prompts the INSS to assess whether a permanent disability pension is warranted.
Alaminos noted that the INSS rarely approves permanent disability pensions on initial review, stating that it is far more common for the agency to reject claims. In a recent legal dispute, courts in Catalonia overruled an INSS decision to grant a permanent disability pension to a woman suffering from Long COVID.
Workers receiving notification of a disability file typically receive formal communication by mail or through Social Security digital portals outlining required records. Alaminos advised that clinical reports must demonstrate that the worker's medical condition prevents them from performing their specific job duties.
Social Security regulations include a formal hearing procedure. When the agency requests complementary documentation or opens this procedure, workers have exactly 10 days to submit documents or lodge formal allegations. Alaminos added that while text message wording varies, messages clearly state why the INSS is contacting the worker.
Additional workplace regulations and legal rights
Labor lawyer Miguel Benito addressed regulations governing supermarket workers, specifically rules barring employers from forcing cashiers to clean restrooms. Benito stated that cleaning an assigned work station is not equivalent to cleaning shared facility spaces.
Labor attorneys also issued guidance regarding corporate subrogations, where staff are transferred to a new employer. Legal experts warned that any worker who loses established employment rights following a transfer has 20 business days to file a lawsuit.
Broader economic and welfare updates
In related economic developments reported alongside labor updates, Spanish Cava manufacturer Codorníu posted a 5 percent increase in annual operating profit, reaching 46 million euros.
Meanwhile, the Spanish government announced planned financial aid for farmers and fishermen affected by economic pressures, establishing a timeline through the end of the year without specifying exact subsidy amounts.
Social Security also highlighted an existing INSS benefit available to eligible pensioners, which provides up to 2,066 euros per year in additional financial support.
