Folketrygden

Folketrygden, or the Norwegian National Insurance Scheme, is Norway’s national social security system. It provides financial protection for residents in life events such as illness, disability, old age, and family circumstances. The scheme is grounded in the National Insurance Act (folketrygdloven) and administered by the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV).

The benefits covered by Folketrygden span a broad range. These include sickness benefits and sickness allowances during periods of illness; disability benefits for reduced work capacity; old-age pensions; survivors’ pensions for dependents; maternity, paternity and parental benefits; unemployment benefits; and child benefits (barnetrygd). Some benefits are income-related, while others are universal or means-tested according to the applicable rules.

Funding primarily comes from payroll contributions paid by employers and employees, known as trygdeavgift, with supplementary government funding as needed. Eligibility generally depends on earning income, residence, and fulfilling contribution requirements. The amount and duration of benefits depend on factors such as contribution history, income level, and family circumstances.

Administration and delivery are handled by NAV, which processes claims, determines eligibility, and disburses payments. Folketrygden interacts with other elements of the Norwegian welfare state, including pension schemes and family support programs, with the aim of providing income protection and social security across major life events.

In summary, Folketrygden forms the core of Norway’s welfare system, offering financial support to residents during sickness, work incapacity, retirement, parenthood, unemployment, and childhood, financed through contributions and public funding and administered by NAV under the relevant law.