Perheeläkkeet

Perheeläkkeet is not a standard term in Finnish social security. The commonly used concept is perhe-eläke, or family pension, and the plural form perhe-eläkkeet is sometimes used informally to refer to the set of pension-type benefits paid to survivors. When encountered in official contexts, the term perhe-eläke describes the benefits rather than a separate program named perheeläkkeet.

Purpose and general idea

Family pensions are designed to provide financial support to close family members after the death of a breadwinner, or in some cases due to long-term incapacity. They aim to maintain a reasonable level of income for dependents such as a surviving spouse or partner and for dependent children.

Beneficiaries and eligibility

The main beneficiaries are surviving spouses or registered partners and dependent children. Eligibility is defined by relationship to the deceased, age limits for children, and, in some cases, studies or education status. Exact rules, durations, and benefit levels are determined by Finnish pension and social security legislation and are administered under the public system.

Administration and funding

In Finland, family pension benefits are part of the national social security framework and are administered by Kela (the Social Insurance Institution of Finland). The system is funded through payroll taxes, social contributions, and state support. Recipients apply with appropriate documentation, such as proof of relationship and, when required, the deceased’s earnings or pension records.

Context

Similar concepts exist in other countries under different names. In Finnish usage, perhe-eläke is the standard label for these survivor benefits.