Changes to social assistance to take effect on 1 February 2026

15.1.2026 13.52
The changes to be made to social assistance will, for example, strengthen the obligations of recipients to apply for full-time work and primary benefits. The overall reform of social assistance aims to clarify the role of social assistance as a last-resort and temporary form of assistance, prevent social exclusion among young people and strengthen general government finances.

New general social security benefit to replace labour market subsidy and basic unemployment allowance as from 1 May 2026

15.1.2026 13.48
In the first stage, the general social security benefit will be a new social security benefit for unemployed jobseekers, replacing the existing labour market subsidy and basic unemployment allowance. The legislation on the general social security benefit is scheduled to enter into force on 1 May 2026.

Comments on the new integration support are requested

5.1.2026 14.50
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health invites comments on the integration support. The comments should be submitted by 16 February 2026.

Ministry and related authorities

Ministry

Ministry

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health manages the preparation and implementation of Finland’s social welfare and health care policy, gender equality policy and occupational safety and health policy.

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health

Administrative branch

Administrative branch

The administrative branch of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health includes several independent institutions and agencies.

Administrative branch

Ministers

Kaisa Juuso
Kaisa Juuso
Minister of Social Affairs and Health
Sanni Grahn-Laasonen
Sanni Grahn-Laasonen
Minister of Social Security