Basic amount of social assistance
The basic amount is a fixed sum of money needed to meet the essential costs of daily living (such as food and clothing). A separate basic amount is calculated for each family member.
In 2024, the basic amount of social assistance for persons living alone is EUR 587.71 per month.
See the table for information about how it is calculated for persons who are not living alone.
Parliament has approved the amendment concerning the recognition of housing costs under the social assistance scheme
The legislative amendment will not bring about any major changes to the current practices. Mostly, it will make the criteria for recognising housing costs clearer by codifying them in an act and a decree. However, the amendment will in some respects tighten the criteria for recognising housing costs that exceed the maximum limit. The legislative amendment will enter into force on 1 April 2024.
| Basic amount, € per month | |
|---|---|
| Persons living alone, no dependent children | 587.71 |
| Persons over 18 sharing a household | 499.55 |
| Single parents | 669.99 |
| Persons aged 18 or over living with their parent(s) | 429.03 |
children aged 10-17 years: oldest sibling | 411.40 |
| children aged 10-17 years: second oldest sibling | 382.01 |
| children aged 10-17 years: third oldest sibling and all other children, each | 352.63 |
Children under 10 years of age: oldest sibling | 370.26 |
| Children under 10 years of age: second oldest sibling | 340.87 |
| Children under 10 years of age: third oldest sibling and all other children, each | 311.49 |
The rates of the basic amount are set in the Social Assistance Act. They are adjusted yearly to changes in the national pensions index.
Use an online calculator to estimate the amount of social assistance available to you
Before applying for basic social assistance, use an online calculator (in Finnish) to see if you or your family are eligible for social assistance and how much you could get.