More than 242,000 citizens and families in need have already received official approval for targeted heating assistance for the upcoming 2026/2027 winter season. The press office of the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy (MLSP) stated that the process of disbursing the funds began on August 15.
By the beginning of September, a total of nearly 330,000 applications had been submitted, with the application period remaining open until October 31. Preliminary estimates from the ministry indicate that approximately 340,000 households are expected to receive support. All received applications are being processed as a priority and as quickly as possible to ensure that the financial aid reaches those in need before the actual start of the heating season.
For the upcoming winter period, covering the time from November 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, the total amount of financial support is set at 321.95 euros. This represents an increase of nearly 11 euros compared to the value of the assistance last year. The funds will be transferred in two separate installments, as follows:
- First installment of 128.78 euros – to cover expenses for November and December 2026 (currently being paid out).
- Second installment of 193.17 euros – for the period of January, February, and March 2027, which will be transferred by the end of January 2027.
The criteria for accessing this targeted assistance require that the average monthly income of individuals or families for the six months preceding the month of application must be equal to or lower than the individually determined differentiated income for heating. Regarding unemployed persons of working age, a condition for mandatory registration with the labor office at least three months before filing the documents has been introduced, as well as a requirement that they have not refused offered work or participation in training courses. It is important to note that students residing in specialized student dormitories are not eligible to receive this targeted assistance.
Application declarations can be submitted in several ways: in person at the "Social Assistance" directorates, via a licensed postal operator, by email, as well as via a qualified electronic signature. There is also an option to apply electronically through the egov.bg portal. For comparison, during the previous winter season, a total of 337,945 people and families received targeted heating assistance.
The MLSP's 2026 draft budget provides for over 315.8 million euros more for social payments in order to cover a larger range of people in need. The ministry's total planned budget amounts to 2.112 billion euros, which represents an increase of 17.6% compared to 2025, with the most significant increase earmarked specifically for financial support for people with permanent disabilities.