Europe (Washington Insider Magazine) – MEPs convene in Strasbourg for their first session following the June EU elections, highlighting the perks associated with their roles. From salaries to allowances and post-service benefits, MEPs enjoy substantial privileges throughout their tenure and beyond.
MEP Salary Structure
All MEPs receive a gross monthly salary of €10,337, with deductions resulting in a net pay of €8,090 as of January 2024. This amount, adjusted annually for inflation, contrasts with national legislator salaries across Europe, exceeding typical earnings for the average EU worker.
Managing Expenditures
MEPs receive a monthly expenditure allowance of €4,950 to cover office-related costs in their home constituencies. This allowance is controversial as it can be deposited directly into personal accounts without requiring expenditure justifications, unlike travel expenses.
Daily Allowance for Attendance
According to Euronews, MEPs are entitled to a daily allowance of €350 while attending sessions in Brussels or Strasbourg, on top of their salaries. MEPs must declare their attendance and take part in voting to collect the entire sum. The absence of votes lowers the daily allotment to €175.
Supplemental Income from Side Jobs
Approximately two-thirds of MEPs engage in side jobs, collectively earning €8.6 million annually. These additional earnings sometimes surpass their core salary and may involve lobbying activities related to EU policy.
Post-Service Benefits
MEPs receive a transitional allowance equivalent to their monthly salary after leaving office, depending on their tenure. MEPs also qualify for a pension when they turn 63. It’s worth as much as 70% of their salary – accruing at 3.5% of salary for each year they served.
Travel Expenses Reimbursement
MEPs are reimbursed for travel to and from Parliament, including business-class airfare, first-class rail, or car expenses. Additional travel within the EU for official duties can also be claimed, along with access to Parliament’s fleet of vehicles.
Budget for Support Staff
Each MEP can hire three to four assistants using a monthly budget allocation of €29,557. These assistants aid in administrative and policy-related tasks, though hiring close family members is prohibited.
This comprehensive overview underscores the significant financial benefits and allowances that accompany the role of MEP, contributing to ongoing discussions about transparency and accountability within the European Parliament.