Israel to Offer Thousands of Shekels in Post-Army Benefits
Translated & summarized from Cursorinfo by baba
In 2026, discharged Israeli soldiers will receive financial, educational, and tax benefits, with amounts varying by service length and role. Key benefits include a demobilization grant and a personal deposit fund, with specific monthly rates for different service types. Funds can be used for education, business, housing, and more, with some restrictions for the first five years. Additional grants and tax breaks are available for those working in specific shortage professions.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Discharged Israeli soldiers will receive financial, educational, and tax benefits starting in 2026.
- A demobilization grant and personal deposit fund offer monthly accruals based on service role and duration.
- Funds can be used for education, business startups, housing, and other life expenses for the first five years.
- Special scholarships are available for academic degrees for eligible former combat soldiers and other groups.
- Grants and tax benefits are offered for employment in shortage professions like construction and hospitality.
- Former soldiers receive access to discounts and free career counseling for several years post-service.
In 2026, former soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will be eligible for a comprehensive package of financial, educational, and tax support upon their release. The specific amounts and benefits will vary based on service duration, unit type, and individual circumstances, with many programs having time limits. A direct demobilization grant, paid within 60 days of discharge, offers free use of funds. As of September 2026, this grant amounts to 688.26 shekels per month for combat roles, 573.14 for combat support, and 458.02 for other positions, provided service lasted at least 12 months.
A key component is the personal deposit, with monthly accruals in September 2026 set at 995.35 shekels for combat soldiers, 829.46 for support roles, and 663.57 for others. For example, 32 months of combat service could yield over 31,851 shekels. These funds are designated for education, vocational courses, driver's licenses, business startups, weddings, or housing for the first five years. Any remaining balance after five years becomes unrestricted. Special scholarship funds, like "Me-madim le-limudim," cover full tuition for academic degrees for eligible former combat soldiers, lone soldiers, immigrants, and minority group members.
Additionally, individuals employed in shortage professions such as construction, hospitality, agriculture, industry, gas stations, and elder care can receive a 11,461 shekel grant after six months of work within two years of release, processed through the National Insurance Institute (Bituah Leumi). Tax benefits include 1 or 2 additional credit points for 36 months post-service, reducing income tax. Former soldiers also gain access to a discount club "Be-atzdaa" for three years and free career and educational counseling for five years, or ten for lone soldiers. Detailed information and application procedures are available on the Ministry of Defense website or by calling *5266.