Support for unemployed individuals aged 52 and older remains a crucial safety net. The subsidy provided by the State Public Employment Service (SEPE) to this specific group offers a steady income stream for those who are unemployed and approaching retirement, helping them meet living costs as they transition toward eligibility for retirement benefits.
The pension-style assistance for citizens over 52 is issued as government financial aid. Its aim is to ensure a stable income for people in this age bracket until they reach retirement age. This support is designed to reduce financial stress during a period when finding new work can be more challenging and retirement planning becomes more pressing.
Eligibility requirements to access this subsidy include the following:
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Have reached the age of 52.
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Be registered as an active job seeker.
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Have at least 15 years of Social Security contributions.
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Meet contributory retirement requirements, excluding age. Previously, beneficiaries were required to retire early, but that restriction has been removed. Workers can now choose either early retirement or continued receipt of benefits until reaching standard retirement age.
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Have an income not exceeding 75% of the Minimum Interprofessional Wage (SMI), excluding Social Security contributions.
The subsidy amount is 480 euros per month, representing about 80% of the IPREM. This level remains in effect until the beneficiary reaches retirement age, provided all conditions are satisfied.
Additionally, the subsidy contributes to social security pension preparation. At present, the contribution tied to this support corresponds to 125% of the minimum contribution. This provision has been a point of controversy, influencing political debates about proposed changes to the subsidy and related contributions. A government plan to reduce new beneficiary contributions to 105% by 2027 drew opposition from certain political groups.
When can people over 52 get help?
SEPE explains that the subsidy is paid in 30-day monthly installments, typically between the 10th and 15th of the month following the accrual month. In most cases, funds are deposited into the bank account designated by the recipient, with some exceptions.
SEPE notes that the selected financial institution must be a collaborator with Social Security. A list of collaborating institutions is available in the corresponding directory.
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Can I get help for people over 52?
The answer is yes, but only in exceptional circumstances. SEPE allows cash payments to be made by the cooperating financial institution when justified by specific situations, subject to proper documentation.
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In situations where payment by account deposit could cause ongoing harm and is not feasible, SEPE may arrange a cash payment rather than a direct bank credit.
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Personal situations that may be accepted include safety concerns or other protected circumstances that require safeguarding identity and security, supported by appropriate official documentation from the competent administration.
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If the worker cannot open a checking account, SEPE may authorize alternative payment methods when justified in the file.
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When SEPE authorizes payment by receipt and the justification is documented, cash or alternative arrangements may be used.
These provisions are intended to ensure that beneficiaries who face genuine barriers to standard bank transfers receive the subsidy in a timely and secure manner. They are subject to verification and require proper justification documented in the beneficiary’s file. Source: SEPE official guidelines.