National Insurance to Pay Benefits After Election Day
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Israel's National Insurance Institute will disburse long-term benefits on October 28, 2026, following the general elections. Eligible old-age pensioners will also receive an increased annual heating grant of 664 shekels. Additionally, unemployment benefit recipients working on election-related tasks can earn up to 19,600 shekels between September 12 and November 10 without affecting their payments, provided specific conditions are met.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Long-term benefit payments will be made on October 28, 2026, after the general elections.
- Unemployment benefit recipients can earn up to 19,600 shekels during the election period without penalty.
- The annual heating grant for eligible old-age pensioners has increased to 664 shekels for 2026.
- Child benefits were paid on October 20, and unemployment/income support on October 12.
- Specific conditions apply for election work payments to not affect unemployment benefits.
Recipients of long-term benefits in Israel will receive their monthly payments on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, the day after the 26th Knesset elections scheduled for Tuesday, October 27. The National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi) confirmed the payment date, which includes a wide range of benefits such as general disability, old age, survivors, long-term care, and child disability. Other benefits have already been disbursed, with unemployment and income support paid on October 12 and child benefits on October 20. The October 28 payment marks a return to the regular payment schedule after adjustments in September due to holidays.
In addition to regular benefits, eligible old-age pensioners will receive their annual heating grant in October. For 2026, the grant is set at 664 shekels per family, an increase from 649 shekels last year, intended to help with winter heating and electricity costs. Eligibility for the grant is based on specific criteria, including receiving an old-age pension, special pension, or survivor's pension, and meeting certain income or disability supplement conditions. Receiving a disability pension alone does not automatically qualify one for the heating grant. The grant is paid automatically to eligible bank accounts, but individuals who meet the criteria and do not receive the payment should contact the National Insurance Institute.
Separately, the National Insurance Institute has announced a special arrangement for unemployment benefit recipients working during the election period. From September 12 to November 10, 2026, individuals can earn up to 19,600 shekels without impacting their unemployment benefits, provided the work is election-related and payment comes directly from a candidate, party, or the Central Elections Committee. Payments from staffing agencies may affect benefits, so the source of payment is crucial.
