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How to appeal a decision on social assistance

If you think that the decision you received from Kela about basic social assistance is wrong, you can ask Kela to re-examine the decision or you can request to have it changed by filing a rectification request.

Check first if the decision can be re-examined by Kela

Before filing a rectification request you should check whether the decision can be re-examined by Kela. Contact Kela and describe the error you discovered in the decision. Situations that can be re-examined directly include obvious errors and decisions made on the basis of clearly deficient information. Re-examining the case at a Kela customer service point is quicker than filing a rectification request.

For instance if a supporting document was missing from the application and for this reason not all expenses have been taken into account, you do not have to file a rectification request. You can send supporting documents online or hand them in at the nearest Kela customer service point. Write your name and personal identity code on the document. Kela will re-examine the decision and take into account any additional evidence you provide.

Appealing a social assistance decision issued by the wellbeing services county

If you think that a decision you received from the wellbeing services county regarding supplementary or preventive social assistance is wrong, you can request to have it changed. A further appeal is possible to the Administrative Court and in certain cases to the Supreme Administrative Court.