Eläkeavustus

Eläkeavustus, often translated as pension supplement or pension assistance, is a social security benefit in Finland intended to ensure a minimum income for pensioners. It is administered by Kela, the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. This benefit is designed to help individuals whose earned pensions and other income are insufficient to cover basic living expenses.

To be eligible for eläkeavustus, a person must be receiving a Finnish earnings-related pension or a national pension. Additionally, their income and the income of their spouse, if applicable, must fall below a certain threshold. The amount of eläkeavustus is determined by the pensioner's income, pension amount, and family circumstances. It is calculated on a case-by-case basis, with higher amounts provided to those with lower incomes and pensions.

Eläkeavustus is a means-tested benefit, meaning that the amount received is directly related to the recipient's financial situation. It is paid out monthly and is intended to supplement, not replace, the primary pension. The purpose of this benefit is to prevent poverty among the elderly and to ensure that all pensioners can maintain a reasonable standard of living in Finland. Applications for eläkeavustus are submitted to Kela, and eligibility is reassessed periodically.