Do I need this job??

 I have currently been in spain for 2 years, originally lived off savings and have been lucky that my husband has a job but now find myself in the situation where i have to find work.  I have been offered a job in a local bar but have been told that I will be paid cash in hand and that my social security would not be paid, how will this affect me and is this standard practice in spain??

Fairly common practice, especially with seasonal type work. Apart from the obvious saving to the employer by not paying social security contributions, giving employees a contract is something many employers prefer to avoid, as it can be very difficult and costly to get rid of the worker later on. Ridiculous labour laws, which encourage a black market IMHO. You shouldn't worry too much about it, since it is the employer who will face a fine if found to be employing people illegally - I've not heard of a worker being fined. Plus, assuming your husband is working legally, you will still be entitled to health care etc as his dependent. I would be more worried about working in a bar - what sort of bar is it, how good are you at playing agony aunt and dealing with unreasonable people?

 Thanks for the info Roberto.  A costly fine is something we can ill afford.  The bar owner has told me that if things work out he will give me a contract but for only one hour a day, I assume that this is to cover him against the fine you mentioned?  My agony aunt skills are sadly lacking but this shouldn,t be too much of a problem as I will be spending most of my time in the kitchen, not the best place to be once summer arrives, but needs must!!  Thanks again.

 Yeah, fairly common practice and probably more common than ever at the moment as everyone is trying to save on costs.

It is expensive to employ people here and it's expensive to be self employed so many people do work cash in hand....even if it isn't "right".

If you need the money take the job.  Like Roberto says, it's the business owner's problem and not really yours.

Justin

 Thank you Justin, have to say you guys have put my mind at rest, I was really quite concerned as I need the work but did not want to do something that would cause problems for us in the future. Its such a shame that the economy is as it is. Many thanks again for your feedback.