Pensioners on low incomes will retain their right to help with heating for the coming winter season despite the increase in pensions. This became possible after the order of the Acting Minister of Labor and Social Policy, Ivaylo Ivanov, to update the correction coefficient by which pension income is reduced when determining the right to targeted assistance. The new coefficient takes into account the modernization of pensions by 11%, the press center of the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy (MLSP) announced.
With the same order, the monthly aid amount of BGN 110.75 was determined. It is calculated on the basis of the price of electricity for household consumers, determined by the Commission for Energy and Water Regulation as of July 1, 2024, according to the ministry. People on low incomes are entitled to targeted heating assistance for the winter period from 1 November 2024 to 31 March 2025. For the entire five-month period, they will be supported with BGN 553.75, for which BGN 186.3 million is provided for in the budget of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications also states.
From July 1 this year The Social Assistance Agency accepts applications for targeted heating assistance, which can be submitted until October 31.
From July 1, pensions granted until the end of 2023 were updated by 11%. Payment of the new amount will begin next Monday, July 8. It will be carried out through post offices from July 8 to July 22, and transfers to the accounts of pensioners who receive their money via bank transfer will be made on July 8, the National Social Security Institute said a few days ago.