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Basic amount of social assistance

The basic amount is a fixed sum of money needed to meet the essential costs of daily living (such as food and clothing). A separate basic amount is calculated for each family member.

In 2024, the basic amount of social assistance for persons living alone is EUR 587.71 per month.

See the table for information about how it is calculated for persons who are not living alone.

Basic amount in 2024
Basic amount, € per month
Persons living alone, no dependent children587.71
Persons over 18 sharing a household 499.55
Single parents669.99
Persons aged 18 or over living with their parent(s) 429.03

children aged 10-17 years: oldest sibling

411.40

children aged 10-17 years: second oldest sibling382.01
children aged 10-17 years: third oldest sibling and all other children, each352.63

Children under 10 years of age: oldest sibling 

370.26

Children under 10 years of age: second oldest sibling340.87
Children under 10 years of age: third oldest sibling and all other children, each 311.49


The rates of the basic amount are set in the Social Assistance Act. They are adjusted yearly to changes in the national pensions index.

Use an online calculator to estimate the amount of social assistance available to you

Before applying for basic social assistance, use an online calculator (in Finnish) to see if you or your family are eligible for social assistance and how much you could get.

Read more

Last modified 1/10/2024