Israel's National Insurance Institute Advances Social Payments Ahead of Sukkot Holiday

Israel's National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi) has announced an accelerated schedule for social benefit payments, with thousands of citizens set to receive their funds earlier than usual due to the upcoming Sukkot holiday. On Tuesday, September 22, eligible recipients, including the elderly, disabled, and those requiring constant care, will see their long-term benefit payments deposited into their bank accounts.

This adjustment affects multiple categories of state aid recipients, allowing them to access their funds in advance of the standard payment dates. Specifically, payments for old age, survivor benefits, general disability, work-related injuries, and limited mobility will be disbursed on September 22. Additionally, payments for caregiving, alimony, and benefits for prisoners of Zion will also be advanced.

The change only alters the disbursement date, not the amount of the benefits, which remain unchanged and are dependent on the type of aid and individual circumstances. This is not the first time Bituah Leumi has adjusted its payment schedule for September due to Jewish holidays. Unemployment and subsistence benefits were paid on September 8, preceding Rosh Hashanah, and child benefits were disbursed on September 20.

This latest advance means recipients of long-term benefits will receive their funds just two days after the previous distribution phase. Bituah Leumi also noted that since the beginning of 2026, the average benefit amount has increased by 2.64% due to indexation tied to rising consumer prices, bringing the average payment to approximately 5,280 shekels. However, this average does not reflect individual payment amounts, which vary based on specific criteria and eligibility.

Recipients are advised to check their bank accounts on September 22. Further information regarding benefit calculations and personal payment schedules can be found in their online accounts on the Bituah Leumi website.