INPS, through message no. 3505 dated November 21, 2025, has provided clarifications regarding the rules and conditions for the crediting of notional contributions for private-sector employees who are on leave for trade union duties or public appointments. Specifically, the employee must be placed on unpaid leave by means of a written document, dated and signed by the employer, prior to the commencement of the mandate. In the absence of the original document, the employer may still provide statements and supporting documents proving the actual period of leave (e.g., payroll records, single employment ledger, etc.)—which, however, will not be sufficient on their own.
With particular reference to trade union appointments, INPS specifies that such appointments must be formally conferred in writing, in accordance with the organization’s bylaws: to confirm the legitimacy of the leave, what matters is the regularity of the appointment, not the activities actually carried out. INPS further notes that the Court of Cassation has likewise confirmed that written form is essential to ensure the certainty of the act, and invites its local offices to verify the compliance of documentation and to review any pending appeals.