Israel's National Insurance Institute to Distribute Benefits Today

Recipients of unemployment and guaranteed income benefits in Israel are set to receive payments into their bank accounts on Tuesday. The National Insurance Institute, known as Bituah Leumi, is responsible for distributing these social benefits to eligible citizens and residents.

Bituah Leumi is Israel's state agency tasked with administering social security payments and benefits. Its responsibilities include child allowances, unemployment and disability benefits, maternity pay, old-age pensions, guaranteed income support, and various forms of social assistance. The institute also collects national and health insurance contributions from employees, the self-employed, and other designated populations as mandated by law.

Unemployment benefits are designed to provide temporary financial support to individuals who have lost their jobs and are seeking re-employment. Eligibility typically requires being an Israeli citizen or resident of a certain age, having ceased employment, registering with the Employment Service, and meeting specific insurance contribution requirements. As of 2026, this generally means having worked as a salaried employee for at least 12 months within the 18 months preceding initial registration with the Employment Service. The benefit amount is calculated based on the individual's earnings and statutory rules, with an online calculator available on the Bituah Leumi website.

Guaranteed income benefits aim to provide financial support to individuals with no income or insufficient income to meet basic living expenses. Eligibility is subject to specific conditions and can include individuals with low wages who are still employed, depending on their personal and family circumstances. Bituah Leumi assesses the income of the individual and their spouse, as well as other sources of income. In some cases, assets, marital status, and vehicle ownership or usage are also considered. Generally, eligibility begins at age 20, though it can start at 18 for certain individuals, including parents of children and minors orphaned by parents. A key requirement is continuous residency in Israel for at least 24 months, with exceptions for shorter periods based on individual status. Many recipients must register with and report to the Employment Service, though some categories are exempt. Refusal of offered work or lack of cooperation with the Employment Service can affect benefit eligibility.