Support for elderly people

Additional Support for Elderly People (Időseknek járó egyéb segélyek)

If an elderly person does not qualify for a full pension, or receives only a very low pension, they may still be eligible for extra financial help from the state.

One of these supports is called "időskorúak járadéka", which means “allowance for elderly people”. This is a small monthly payment for those who:

·       are over retirement age and live in a very low-income household  (no more than HUF 28.505 / person), or

·       are single and over the retirement age but not over 75, and their income isn’t over HUF 33.525, or

·       are single and over 75 years old, and their income isn’t over HUF 45.255

This is a social benefit — it is not based on how many years you worked, but on your current financial situation.

You must apply through your local district office (járási hivatal). You may need a translator or social worker to help with the process.

Housing Maintenance Support (Lakásfenntartási támogatás) is a local-level financial support to help low-income households to cover their basic housing-related costs, such as heating, electricity, water, sewage, etc.

This support is not available everywhere — only some local municipalities (önkormányzat) still offer it. Each municipality decides:

·       whether they provide this support at all,

·       what the eligibility rules are (income limits, household size, etc.),

·       and how much money is given.

If you are struggling with housing costs, ask your local government office if they offer housing support. You may need to show proof of your income and household expenses.

Emergency One-Time Municipal Support is a one-time payment provided by the local municipality to people who are facing an unexpected or urgent financial problem. Common reasons include:

·       needing expensive medicine or medical treatment,

·       not being able to pay for heating or electricity,

·       covering funeral costs after a family death,

This support is not automatic and depends on the specific situation. You need to apply at your local municipal office (önkormányzat) and explain your situation. You may be asked to provide documents or receipts.

The Care Watch Program (Gondosóra Program) is a free emergency support service available to all Hungarian citizens over 65 years old.

The program provides a wearable device (like a smart watch or pendant) with a button that allows elderly people to call for help at any time — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If they feel unwell, fall, or need urgent assistance, they can press the button and speak directly with an emergency dispatcher.

To receive the device, the person must register online at: www.gondosora.hu

Learn more about additional support at your local district offices and at: https://www.magyarorszag.hu/