Social policy
News on social assistance, pensions, employment, income, welfare programs, and protection of vulnerable groups.
When will pensions be paid in May 2026? See the schedule!
Learn the exact dates for the payment of pensions, maternity benefits, and unemployment benefits in May 2026. According to the NOI, the process begins on May 7.
The Council of Ministers adopted the Medium-Term Programme for Humanitarian Aid and Development (2025-2030)
The government approved the fourth medium-term programme for development and humanitarian aid (2025-2030). Bulgaria continues to support strategic regions and priority sectors, with a focus on education, healthcare, good governance, and economic growth.
MLSP: Bracelet for Remote Care for Elderly and Job Creation
Deputy Minister Natalia Efremova presented the progress on the measure "Innovative Health and Social Services", which includes a bracelet for remote health monitoring of elderly people and the creation of jobs in the field of support. The measure is funded under the "Human Resources Development" Programme with a budget of over 68.5 million euros and covers over 14,000 users.
For the first time: tactile templates for the visually impaired in 400 sections in 5 electoral districts
For the vote on April 19, for the first time, Braille tactile templates and QR codes for visually impaired voters are introduced in 400 sections in Sofia, Plovdiv and Blagoevgrad, so that they can vote informed and independently.
Faster Pension Payments: Changes to the Regulation on Pensioners' Insurance
Changes are planned in the Regulation on Pensions and Insurance Record, which will speed up pension payments. If the payment date falls on a day off, pensions will be paid on the previous working day to avoid delays. The measure is aimed at supporting the most vulnerable groups.
Easter 2026: The Table Will Cost 11% More - How War and Speculation Affect Prices?
The Easter table in Bulgaria in 2026 will be 11% more expensive compared to last year, according to data from the Institute for Social and Trade Union Research at KNSB. The main factor is the increase in the price of lamb meat, but the high prices of vegetables, eggs, and fuel also have an impact. Experts note the role of the conflict in the Middle East, speculation, and the lack of sufficient support for pensioners.
Humanitarian organizations: the war in Iran disrupts access to food and medicine for millions of people
The conflict between the US, Israel and Iran has led to the most serious disruption of global supply chains since COVID‑19, blocking the Strait of Hormuz and increasing transport costs. WHO and humanitarian organizations warn of a sharp rise in hunger and shortages of medicines.
April 2026 pensions to be paid starting today, April 7, with Easter supplements
April 2026 pensions will be paid from April 7th via post offices and bank transfer. Easter supplements will also be paid to pensioners in need, along with the pensions.
Iranian refugees and Bulgaria: a real destination or a peripheral route?
The main destinations for Iranian refugees remain Germany, the UK, Canada and other high-income countries, while Bulgaria is more of a transit country with a small number of asylum applications. Despite the improved asylum system, the country has limited capacity and problems with access to the procedure, which raises questions about its readiness for a mass influx.
Hasan Ademi: Over 60,000 applications for fuel compensation, March funds – in mid-April
Minister Ademi announced that around 50,900 applications have been submitted for the 20-euro fuel compensation. The total number is expected to exceed 60,000. The funds for March will be disbursed in mid-April. In April, the measure will be activated automatically at a certain fuel price.
Distribution of Food Products by the ASP: Aid for Over 530,000 Bulgarians
The distribution of food products under the program “Food and Basic Material Assistance” (FBMA) 2021-2027, co-financed by the EU, continues until May 15. The aid reaches over 530,000 vulnerable citizens, distributed by the Bulgarian Red Cross. Accompanying support is also provided to overcome social isolation.
The Council of Ministers allocated funds for humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees
The government approved funding for the Bulgarian Red Cross to support Ukrainian refugees. A security agreement with Ukraine has also been signed.
When and how will pensions and benefits be paid in April 2026?
The National Social Security Institute (NSSI) has announced the dates for the payment of pensions, supplements and benefits in April 2026. Pensions will be paid through post offices from April 7 to 20, and by bank transfer on April 7. Easter supplements will also be paid. Benefits will be paid on April 2 and 15.
Support measure for those in need comes into effect, fuel price stabilization
The support measure for those in need comes into effect. The caretaker Minister of Finance announces the stabilization of fuel prices and inspections by the NRA.
Fuel Compensation Program: How to Get 20 Euros Monthly from the State
The Social Assistance Agency has announced a program to compensate individuals for high fuel prices. A monthly allowance of 20 euros for low-income individuals who own vehicles. How to apply and what are the conditions?