Kela implements stricter housing regulations for social assistance recipients in Finland

An increasing number of recipients of social assistance in Finland have received notifications from Kela, the Finnish social security institution, urging them to seek more affordable housing. This change follows a legislative amendment that went into effect at the beginning of April. Under previous regulations, if an individual’s income was insufficient to cover expenses such as rent, Kela provided assistance up to a municipal maximum limit. However, Kela has now adopted a stricter stance regarding exceeding this limit.

Previously, recipients could exceed the maximum aid level by a small amount, but this grace period has been eliminated. If housing costs surpass the established maximum, Kela advises recipients to move to cheaper accommodations. If recipients do not comply and cannot provide valid reasons for exceeding the limit, Kela will only cover assistance up to the maximum, leaving individuals liable for the remaining housing costs.

In response to these changes, Kela is collecting experiences from individuals under 30 who receive social assistance to understand how these stricter rules and cuts to social security have impacted their lives.

Kela invites feedback from affected young people regarding their experiences. Specifically, they are inquiring whether individuals have been prompted to seek more affordable housing, if they have indeed searched for cheaper rentals but found nothing, and if financial worries persist after paying rent.

Those interested in participating can respond via a provided form or contact the journalist directly, ensuring their submission includes their full name, phone number, and email address. Responses will be used solely for this report and will not be shared with third parties.