leskeneläke

Leskeneläke is a Finnish survivor’s pension that provides financial support to a surviving spouse, a registered partner, or other eligible dependent after the death of a person who had pension rights under Finland’s social security system. The benefit is part of the national pension system and is generally administered by Kansaneläkelaitos (Kela).

Eligibility for leskeneläke depends on the deceased having pension entitlement at the time of death and the survivor being legally recognized as a spouse or registered partner. The amount and continuation of the benefit are affected by the survivor’s age and other income or pensions. In many cases, changes in family situation, such as remarriage or entering a new partnership, can end or alter eligibility.

Calculation and amount are based on a formula that takes into account the deceased’s pension rights and the survivor’s own pension and income. The pension is designed to supplement the survivor’s income and may be reduced if the survivor has other substantial earnings or benefits.

Application and administration: Applications are submitted to Kela. Typical required documents include marriage or registered partnership certificates, the death certificate, and information about the deceased’s pension rights as well as the survivor’s income.

Duration and termination: Leskeneläke is reviewed periodically and continues as long as the eligibility conditions are met. The entitlement can end or change if circumstances change, such as remarriage, changes in partnership status, or when the survivor becomes eligible for different pension arrangements or reaches an age where other benefits apply.

Interaction with other benefits: Leskeneläke may interact with the survivor’s own pension, national pension, or other income, influencing total household income and benefit eligibility.