Israel's National Insurance Offers Income Support Up to 5,289 Shekels Monthly
Israel's National Insurance Institute, known as Bituah Leumi, provides an income support benefit designed for low-income individuals and families struggling to cover essential living expenses. The amount of this benefit varies based on factors such as age, family size, and other specific conditions.
As of January 1, 2026, a single parent aged 55 or older, raising two or more children, could receive a maximum monthly benefit of 5,289 shekels, provided all eligibility requirements are met. Eligibility is generally assessed at the family level, considering the income and employment of both spouses, though exceptions exist. A key requirement is residing in Israel for at least 24 consecutive months, with eligibility typically starting at age 20, or 18 in special circumstances. Applicants must also be registered with and attend the employment service as required, unless an exemption applies.
The income support benefit is not exclusively for the unemployed. Bituah Leumi distinguishes between full income support for those unable to earn a sufficient living and income supplements for individuals whose earnings fall below a minimum living standard. This means employed individuals may also qualify for partial benefits.
Maximum benefit amounts differ significantly by age and family composition. For individuals aged 25-54, the maximum ranges from 2,076 shekels for a single person to 4,049 shekels for a single parent with multiple children. For those aged 55 to retirement age, these amounts increase, with a single parent of two or more children potentially receiving up to 5,289 shekels. Additional income or asset ownership, such as a car valued under 46,138 shekels (or higher for pensioners), can affect the final payout.
Certain individuals are exempt from the requirement to regularly report to the employment service, including those with low wages, self-employed individuals under specific conditions, participants in vocational training, pregnant women, those caring for young children or sick family members, and individuals undergoing rehabilitation. Exemptions also apply to those of retirement age or with medical conditions preventing work for over 30 days. Failure to report when required can result in the loss of benefits for that month, though exceptions exist for illness or bereavement.
Applications for the income support benefit can be submitted online, by mail, or fax, with payments typically issued on the 12th of each month for the preceding month. Recipients must promptly report any changes in their circumstances, such as employment, income, or family status, to Bituah Leumi within 30 days. Certain groups, including students in religious seminaries, spouses of IDF conscripts, and members of kibbutzim or cooperative villages, are generally ineligible, though exceptions may apply for specific vocational training or single parents pursuing higher education.
