Israel's National Insurance Institute Clarifies Disability Benefits for Working Israelis

Israel's National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi) has reminded the public that working Israelis may still be eligible for monthly general disability benefits, provided their income does not exceed a specific threshold. The benefit is available to citizens aged 18 to retirement age whose health conditions significantly limit their ability to work and earn. This includes physical, mental, or emotional impairments resulting from illness, injury, or congenital defects.

To qualify, applicants must meet several criteria beyond income. A medical disability rating of at least 60% is required. This can be lower, down to 40%, if multiple impairments exist and at least one is rated at 25%. Crucially, the applicant's work capacity must be reduced by at least 50%. The determined disability rating can range from 60% to 100%.

As of January 1, 2026, monthly benefit amounts will range from 2,718 shekels for a 60% disability rating to 4,711 shekels for 100% disability. Additional payments are available for dependents, including 1,214 shekels per child for the first two children and up to 1,518 shekels for a spouse, under certain conditions.

Bituah Leumi emphasized that individuals can combine work with receiving benefits. A working person can apply if their gross monthly income is below 8,261 shekels and they meet other eligibility requirements. For initial eligibility, income is assessed over a 90-day period within the 15 months preceding the application. Paid sick leave, with employer confirmation, is not counted towards income.

Existing beneficiaries can also return to work and retain their payments, with the amount adjusted based on their earnings and disability rating. If employment ceases or income drops below the threshold again, beneficiaries can revert to their previous benefit level without a new medical assessment, provided their disability rating remains the same.

To apply, individuals must submit a claim to Bituah Leumi with medical and income documentation. Employed applicants need salary details for the past 15 months, while the self-employed require business and income information, along with tax declarations. A Bituah Leumi doctor assesses the applicant, potentially referring them to a medical committee for disability rating. Benefits typically start 91 days after the disability is established, though exceptions exist for severe cases or retroactive payments up to 12 months. An expedited process is available for individuals with severe disabilities, aiming for a decision within 30 days. Professional rehabilitation services, including training and job placement assistance, are also offered.