Israel has a comprehensive social security system that pays out a series of benefits and grants to those in financial need. The social insurance system covers every citizen of Israel and the social assistance programme is a series of means tested benefits that are applicable to those aged 20 or older. There are groups of people who are not eligible for benefits. These include military personnel, students and members of a kibbutz, among others.

Workers make contributions into the system, which is a percentage of their wage. Self employed people also make contributions and employers will also pay a percentage into the system for each employee. This is topped up with a small percentage by the government.

In order to claim the old age pension a person must have made a minimum of 12 years of contributions into the system. There are different payments that can be made in connection to the old age pension such as income support benefit for those who only have their pension and a supplement for any dependents.

For illnesses, there are disability payments and pensions, depending upon the severity of the disability and the length of time the claimant will be off work. A person who needs the help of others to carry out everyday tasks can claim an attendance allowance. Parents with a disabled child can claim an allowance to help with the cost of care and there is a mobility allowance for those who have reduced mobility but are not yet retired.

There are also a series of benefits which are for the short term. Maternity grants and benefits can be paid to new mothers who have paid into the system. There is also a short term sickness benefit that can be claimed for those who are out of work because of illness but who are expected to return to work after a short time.

The social insurance scheme covers those who are unemployed if they have been making contributions. Those who have voluntarily left their employment will not qualify for this benefit. As with all benefits, the amount paid out is based on the average salary earned prior to the claim.

As an expat new to the county you will not be able to claim benefits. If you are moving to the country to claim citizenship, then after a qualifying period and a minimum number of contributions you will be able to make a claim.