Finland proposes stricter measures to combat social security fraud

The Finnish government is pushing for legal changes to make it harder to misuse social benefits, according to a statement from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.

Under the proposed reforms, the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela) would gain expanded access to financial data from banks and payment systems to verify applicants’ economic status. Social security minister Sanni Grahn-Laasonen (National Coalition Party) stated the aim is to strengthen Kela’s legal right to obtain such information.

Additionally, medical certificates and statements required for benefit applications could be processed more efficiently through the Kannan inquiry service, though this change is intended to streamline operations and cut costs rather than address fraud.

In 2025, approximately €110 million in incorrect payments were recovered by the ministry.