Israelis Facing Pension Claim Deadline After October 7 Attacks

Thousands of Israelis who suffered physical or mental harm due to the October 7 Hamas attacks and the subsequent war may be eligible for disability pensions from their pension funds, but face a looming deadline to file claims. Attorney Sheri Dvir explains that while pension funds offer disability coverage beyond retirement savings, claims must typically be filed within three years of the onset of work incapacity. For those whose incapacity began on October 7, 2023, this deadline could be as early as October 7, 2026.

Dvir emphasizes that many victims are unaware of this potential benefit, which is separate from disability claims filed with the National Insurance Institute. She argues that the state, through the Capital Markets Authority, should extend this filing period due to the extraordinary circumstances of the October 7 attacks, which left many victims struggling with trauma and recovery for months. "The state must extend it, but it is unclear if and when this will happen," Dvir stated.

She advises that individuals who believe they are eligible should file a claim with their pension fund immediately, even if their claim with the National Insurance Institute is still pending. It is crucial to obtain written confirmation of the filing date and to gather all relevant medical documentation. Even for those who have already filed, Dvir recommends verifying receipt, understanding the registered date of the qualifying event, and following up on any missing documents or potential appeals.

Dvir warns that the statute of limitations does not automatically pause during correspondence with the pension fund and urges prompt action to prevent claims from being dismissed solely due to procedural deadlines. "It is not possible for a person injured in an event that changed their life to discover later that their right has disappeared simply because they did not know about its existence in time," she added.