perusturvan

Perusturva, or basic security, is the foundational layer of Finland's social security system. It is designed to guarantee a minimum standard of living for residents, independent of current employment status, and to protect individuals and families from poverty and material hardship. The concept covers benefits paid to those with insufficient or no earnings and aims to cover essential needs such as housing, basic income during unemployment, and general subsistence. Eligibility is determined by residence and other conditions, and most basic security benefits are administered by the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela).

Core components typically included under perusturva are Kansaneläke (national pension) for those with low or no earnings; Asumistuki (housing allowance) to support housing costs; and Peruspäiväraha (basic unemployment allowance) for jobseekers who do not qualify for earnings-related unemployment benefits. In addition, municipalities may provide Toimeentulotuki (income support) as a last-resort measure to ensure basic subsistence.

Perusturva forms part of Finland's three-tier safety net, alongside ansiosidonnainen turva (earnings-related security, such as earnings-related pensions and unemployment benefits) and lisäturva (supplementary security). The system is financed primarily through general taxation and social security contributions, with the aim of maintaining an adequate standard of living and reducing poverty while providing a predictable safety net during life events.

Policy discussions around perusturva often focus on adequacy, cost, and reforms to ensure gender equality and respond to demographic changes such as aging populations and evolving work arrangements.