National Insurance Institute Details Disability Benefits for Children

Israel's National Insurance Institute has outlined the eligibility criteria for disability benefits for children, designed to support families caring for children with disabilities or severe health conditions. The benefits aim to alleviate financial burdens and enable families to continue providing care within their communities. To qualify, children must be dependents of an insured individual residing in Israel and be physically present in the country within a family framework. The institute lists numerous conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, respiratory illnesses, and developmental delays, that may grant eligibility. If a child has multiple qualifying conditions, benefits are paid based on the condition that yields the highest amount. The institute also advises checking eligibility even if a specific condition isn't listed, focusing on treatments and the need for supervision.

Children undergoing consistent medical treatments for at least six months, from 91 days old up to 18 years and three months, may receive 100% of the benefit, amounting to 3,820 shekels. This requires three different treatments for a single illness or four for multiple illnesses. Specific treatments include regular inhalation therapy, daily medication, physical therapy, specialist clinic follow-ups, and wound care. Children needing weekly blood tests that cannot be done at home for at least six months also qualify for 100% benefits.

In cases of severe and prolonged medical treatment or hospitalization, benefits can reach 235%, totaling 9,126 shekels. Families must submit recent medical documents detailing the child's condition, treatment, and functional status. Comprehensive documentation may allow for eligibility assessment without requiring the child to attend a medical committee meeting.

Dependence on others for daily activities significantly beyond what is typical for a child's age can also lead to eligibility for children aged 3 to 18 years and three months. Benefit levels, effective January 1, 2026, range from 50% (1,943 shekels) to 235% (9,126 shekels). Additional allowances are available for children requiring permanent respiratory support, with specific conditions and limitations on combining allowances. Families with multiple disabled children receive a 50% increase for each child based on their individual eligibility percentage.