Haigushüvitist

Haigushüvitist refers to the sickness benefit in Estonia, a form of financial support provided to insured individuals during periods of temporary incapacity to work due to illness or injury. It is part of the country’s social security and health insurance system and is intended to compensate for lost income while a person is unable to work. The benefit is funded through compulsory health insurance contributions and is administered within the Estonian health insurance framework, primarily by the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (Haigekassa) in coordination with employers and medical professionals.

Who can claim? Eligibility generally requires that a person is covered by Estonian health insurance and has a medical certificate confirming incapacity for work. The exact entitlement depends on contributions, residence, and other statutory conditions. The system distinguishes between employed, self-employed, and other insured persons, and may involve specific waiting periods or qualification requirements defined by law.

Amount and duration: The sickness benefit is calculated as a portion of the insured person’s average earnings, with a maximum cap determined by law. The benefit is payable for a defined period of sickness, often up to a certain number of days within a year, after which other forms of support may apply. The precise amount and time limits can change with legislation.

Administration: Plans for claiming typically involve a physician’s certificate of incapacity and notification by the employer, with the Haigekassa assessing and paying the benefit or processing reimbursement. Processing times and procedural details are governed by current regulations and can vary.

See also: Haigekassa; Estonian Health Insurance Fund; Estonian social security; sickness leave.