perusturvaa

Perusturva, or basic security, is a component of the Finnish welfare state intended to guarantee a minimum level of income and protection for all residents. It aims to ensure that basic needs—such as food, shelter, and healthcare—are covered, regardless of employment status.

In practice, perusturva comprises several benefits administered primarily by the Finnish Social Insurance Institution (Kela) and, for some parts, by local municipalities. National pension (kansaneläke) and the guarantee pension (takuueläke) provide income security for elderly and certain disabled or low-income individuals. Housing support (asumistuki) helps cover housing costs. Social assistance (toimeentulotuki) serves as a last-resort safety net to address ongoing low income or exceptional circumstances. The goal is to maintain a basic standard of living and reduce poverty through a combination of cash benefits and support services.

The concept exists alongside earnings-related benefits and is part of Finland's two-layer approach to social protection. Funding comes from taxes and social security contributions, with administration shared between Kela and municipalities. Reforms in recent decades have focused on simplifying access and ensuring sustainability as demographic and economic pressures influence the system. See also Kansaneläke, takuueläke, asumistuki, toimeentulotuki, Kela.