Processing of unemployment benefit applications to be accelerated

The processing of applications is being simplified in the situation where the number of applications is growing fast.

The coronavirus epidemic has caused an exceptionally high number of applications for unemployment benefits to unemployment funds and the Social Insurance Institution Kela. Once introduced, the amendments will facilitate implementation and speed up the processing of applications.

Based on a temporary amendment, unemployment benefit can be paid without a decision, as an advance payment, for a period of six months instead of the current period of two months. In line with the current practice, unemployment benefit must be applied separately for each unemployment period.

The amendment on the advance payment of the benefit also enables to safeguard the payment of unemployment benefits during backlogs. Advance payments may reduce pressure to apply for income support during the time when the application for unemployment security is waiting to be processed. 

The other amendments to be introduced concern certain situations in which unemployment benefits are mediated.

The President of the Republic approved the act on temporary derogations from the Unemployment Security Act due to the coronavirus epidemic. The act will enter into force on 11 May 2020 and it will remain in force until 31 October 2020.

Inquiries:

Juho Orjala, Special Adviser to Minister Pekonen, tel. +358 295 163 424
Marjaana Maisonlahti, Senior Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 295 163 288