In the program "Oshche ot dnya" ("More from the Day"), the Minister of Labour and Social Policy, Natalia Efremova, announced the introduction of a new social tool for next year, which she describes as a "family package plus." The project stems from a commitment made during the previous stage of the 2026 budget procedure. The ministry's idea is for this package to encompass all family allowances, various support payments, maternity benefits, and tax reliefs in their entirety. The goal of the measure is to ensure more disposable income for family budgets, allowing households to more effectively realize their potential.
The Ministry of Social Policy is also planning specific steps regarding maternity and child benefits. Efremova expressed a firm intention to fulfill her promise to increase the incentive for mothers returning to work before the end of the second year, with the amount set at 75%. To achieve this goal, additional funds will be allocated in the social security budget. At the same time, a significant update to one-time child benefits is planned. This includes the birth grant provided to every Bulgarian family without a means test—increases exceeding 50% are currently being discussed for this.
Working parents can also expect new tax reliefs aimed at reducing the tax base. According to Minister Efremova, not only is an increase in the current relief level forthcoming, but a second step in this direction is also being introduced. It will cover families who invest in sports, cultural, and other extracurricular activities for their children. In the context of tax policy, the minister was categorical that a transition to progressive taxation is not currently being considered. Regarding the minimum wage, she indicated that the new formula provides for a maximum amount of 672,80 euros, but the final decision will depend on an overall review of budgetary possibilities, with the ambition of reaching the highest possible threshold.
During the discussion, Minister Efremova highlighted the following key priorities:
- Overcoming poverty: According to the ministry, the key is not solely social assistance, but rather attracting economically inactive individuals of working age to the labour market, as they represent a significant portion of the low-income population.
- Christmas bonuses: For the current year, the payment of bonuses in the amount of 50 euros has been confirmed. A distinctive feature is that, through the databases of the Social Assistance Agency, they will be provided automatically to 12 specific groups, including not only pensioners with low pensions but also families and people with disabilities with low incomes.
At the end of the conversation, the minister clarified that the new poverty line is of essential importance and projected that the changes in social policy are expected to lift approximately 0,5% of people above the poverty threshold.