Avustusmuodot

Avustusmuodot is a Finnish term referring to the different ways help can be delivered to individuals or households by public authorities, organizations, or communities. They aim to secure basic living conditions, support independent living, and promote social equality. They can be financial or in-kind, and targeted to different circumstances.

Monetary benefits refer to cash payments and financial support that can include pensions, unemployment benefits, sickness allowances, and family benefits such as child benefit and maternity or paternity allowances, as well as housing benefits.

In-kind benefits and services consist of goods and services provided directly to recipients. Examples include subsidized housing, subsidized meals, healthcare services, rehabilitation, childcare, transportation assistance, and equipment aids.

Social support and services cover non-financial help such as guidance and counselling, job placement assistance, disability or elderly care services, home care, and educational or special needs support.

Administration and eligibility: most avustusmuodot are administered by government agencies or municipalities; in Finland, agencies like Kela handle many social security benefits. Eligibility often depends on residence, income, family status, age, or assessed need, with applications and periodic reviews to determine continued eligibility.

Policy goals and considerations: avustusmuodot aim to reduce poverty, promote basic security, and enable participation in work and education. They require careful budgeting and ongoing assessment to balance sufficiency, fairness, and sustainability, while coordinating with tax systems and social insurance.