Families who have welcomed a new child, whether by birth or adoption, can celebrate because a one-time payment of up to 1,000 euros may accompany the arrival. If there are two children, the amount doubles. This is a Social Security lump-sum grant designed to help offset some of the extra costs that come with a birth or adoption in certain families.
Requisites to receive the grant
It is not a universal benefit, and specific conditions must be met to qualify. Children must have been born or adopted from 16-11-2007 onward, and the family must be large, single-parent, or have a mother with a disability at a level of 65 percent or higher. The birth must have occurred within Spanish territory or adoption must be recognized by the competent Spanish authority. (Source: Social Security guidelines)
According to the Social Security website, if the parents live together, either parent can receive the grant by mutual agreement; if there is no agreement, the mother will be the beneficiary. If there is no cohabitation, the guardian who has custody of the children will receive it. If the children are orphans or abandoned, the person who legally takes responsibility for them becomes the beneficiary. (Source: Social Security)
At the same time, the parents must reside legally in Spain, have annual earnings below the stated limits, and not be eligible for any other public protection benefits of a similar nature under another social security regime. (Source: Social Security)
How to apply for the grant
After applying through a form, the maximum time allowed for a decision and notification to the applicant is 45 days. The right to recognition expires five years after the day following the birth or adoption. Applications and required documents can be submitted through the Social Security Electronic Headquarters if the applicant has a digital certificate or cl@ve permanent, or through the Platform for Applications and Procedures for Social Security Benefits. Alternatively, mail or an in-person visit at a Social Security Office is possible. (Source: Social Security)
The recognition of the right to the economic benefit is the responsibility of the INSS. (Source: INSS)