Housing benefits help with residential costs

Residential costs can be decreased by claiming housing benefits from Kela. The benefit can cover up to 80% of residential costs. The size of the benefit depends on the household's regular income over a period of at least 5 months. The income limits vary by municipality.
For more information about income limits and claiming housing benefits call +358 (0) 20 692 201 or visit www.kela.fi.

How to claim

The required documentation is:

• copies of rental agreements and rental payment receipts
• a report of your assets and debts
• a certificate from the housing manager about any renovations in your residence (if the residence has been renovated, you may qualify for a higher rate of benefit)

Also required, depending on the status of your household:

• a pay check
• a decision on a start-up grant if you are a new entrepreneur without self-employed persons’ pension insurance
• a report about returning to work or staying at home after parental or nursing leave or military/civil alternative service.
• pay check, if you are returning to work during the following six months after your housing supplement has been granted or reviewed

You can complete the application form online or get a paper form from Kela's local office. The offices are equipped with customer PCs.

More information:   
www.kela.fi/laskurit(in Finnish)
www.kela.fi/asiointi(in Finnish)