National Insurance Clarifies Work Accident Definitions and Benefits

The National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi) has issued a reminder that accidents occurring on the way to or from work may be recognized as work accidents, potentially entitling individuals to compensation, medical treatment, and monthly allowances. According to the institute's regulations, a work injury includes accidents or occupational diseases. This recognition is not limited to incidents at the workplace but can extend to commutes, including road accidents, provided the employee has not made a significant, unnecessary deviation from their usual route. Exceptions exist, such as brief stops for morning prayers or accompanying a child to daycare up to age 10, with specific provisions for children with disabilities.

Further circumstances that may qualify as work injuries include incidents during work hours while attempting to save a person or property, injuries caused by another person at the workplace, and accidents occurring during a break of up to three hours, including travel to and from the location. Injuries sustained by a workers' committee member during their duties, or during travel to or from an exam related to apprenticeship or employment service laws, may also be recognized. Additionally, injuries from workplace assaults, including sexual assault, or accidents during remote work, can be considered work-related if they result in physical or mental harm requiring medical attention. Psychological harm from specific work events may also be evaluated.

However, recognition can be denied if the insured acted negligently or violated a legal or employer's directive, unless the accident resulted in death, disability, or an inability to work for at least 10 days, and would have been recognized without the negligence. Those recognized as work accident victims are primarily eligible for injury allowances, which compensate for lost income when unable to work due to the injury. To qualify, individuals must be insured, have a recognized work accident, stop working because of it, and file a claim with medical documentation. These allowances are paid for up to 13 weeks and are calculated based on 75% of the insured income, subject to a daily cap. As of January 1, 2026, the maximum daily allowance is NIS 1,314.25, with deductions for taxes and insurance contributions.

The payment structure varies: salaried employees receive their salary from the employer for the day of the injury. If absent for less than 12 days, allowances start from the third day post-injury; for absences exceeding 12 days, they begin the day after the injury. Self-employed individuals must be registered and have paid their insurance contributions on time, with allowances calculated after the first 12 days of incapacity. Complex calculations apply for those with multiple employers, combined employment types, or partial returns to work. The National Insurance Institute may also consider additional payments from employers when calculating allowances. Claims for discrepancies in allowances due to employer payments like vacation or bonuses must be filed within 12 months.

Beyond immediate compensation, individuals with lasting disabilities from a recognized work injury may be eligible for a disability pension, paid as a lump sum or monthly allowance based on the assessed disability level. Even those who return to work or do not miss work can claim disability benefits if a disability remains. Applications for reassessment due to worsening conditions or new related impairments can be submitted. Those with high disability ratings or mobility issues might qualify for special allowances for expenses or personal care. Furthermore, recognized work accident victims are entitled to necessary medical treatment, including hospitalization, medication, and medical equipment, with reimbursements available through health funds upon presentation of the National Insurance's recognition and receipts.