Peretoetused

Peretoetused, or family benefits, are a set of government financial supports designed to help families with children. In Estonia, peretoetused are part of the social security system and are administered by the national authority Sotsiaalkindlustusamet in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Affairs. The aim is to reduce the costs of raising children, support birth and child welfare, and promote stable family life.

The system includes several main benefits. The sünnitoetus is a one-off birth grant paid to assist with initial costs after a child is born. The lastetoeetus is a monthly benefit for each child, intended to help cover ongoing child-rearing expenses. The vanemahüvitis is a parental benefit that can be paid to a parent who takes time off work after birth, with different durations and amounts depending on the chosen arrangements and current rules. There are also other targeted supports for families with special needs or low income.

Eligibility and administration: Generally, eligibility depends on the specific benefit and may require Estonian residency, citizenship, or long-term residence, as well as contribution history to the social security system for certain benefits. Applications are typically submitted to Sotsiaalkindlustusamet through its online portal or at local government offices, with documents such as the child’s birth certificate and the applicant’s ID often needed.

Amounts and duration: Benefit amounts and duration vary by benefit, family size, and income, and are periodically updated by law. The details can change, so up-to-date information should be checked on official government sources.