Government proposes changes to special maternity allowances, donor allowances and special care allowances from 1 January 2026
The Government is proposing a number of changes in the Health Insurance Act, which would impact special maternity allowances, special care allowances and donor allowances.
If approved by Parliament, the proposed changes will go into effect on 1 January 2026.
What would change?
The Government is proposing to make additions to the list of factors that pose a risk to the pregnant parent or the foetus and qualify the parent for the special pregnancy allowance. The list of risk factors would comply with domestic and international regulations on worker protections. The Government is also proposing to introduce a partial special pregnancy allowance.
Further, the Government proposes that the donor allowance would compensate for the actual loss of income caused by the removal of an organ, tissue or cells and any necessary associated tests or examinations. Under the current rules, the donor allowance is calculated on the basis of annual income in the same way as the sickness allowance. If the proposed change is approved, the donor allowance will provide more effective compensation for the actual loss of income incurred by donors.
The Government is also proposing to clarify the qualifying requirements for the special care allowance. The allowance would also be available to parents who participate in specialist-level treatment or rehabilitation of their child. Specialist-level treatment can also be provided outside hospitals or hospital outpatient clinics. This change would clarify the qualifying requirements for the allowance and make them more consistent, as well as create more equality among the applicants.
When are the proposed changes intended to enter into force?
If the proposal is approved by Parliament, the changes will come into effect on 1 January 2026.
The changes would impact customers who are granted any of the three allowances on or after 1 January 2026.
We will provide more information on any changes and their timing once Parliament has reviewed the government proposal.
What do I need to do if I receive special pregnancy allowance, special care allowance or donor allowance?
The proposed legislative amendments have not yet been approved by Parliament. If you were granted special pregnancy allowance, special care allowance or donor allowance before 1 January 2026, the proposed changes will not affect your allowance. You do not have to do anything now and do not need to contact Kela.
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