As the war leaves behind a growing number of orphans, Israel is stepping in to provide expanded support. On Sunday, the National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi) announced new regulations that will significantly increase financial aid to families raising children who lost both parents in acts of terror. The changes will apply retroactively from January 1, 2024, pending approval by the Knesset Labor and Welfare Committee.
Broader Support for Bereaved Families
Under the new guidelines, families that take in orphaned children will receive substantial financial assistance. For example, during the first year, a family raising one orphan will receive 150% of the lost income or the national average wage, or whichever is higher.
For orphans under age 3, the assistance will be 100% of the reference income. Families raising two orphans will receive 250%, split between both guardians.
Tailored Aid Based on Age and Family Composition
The new rules also account for the age of the children and the family’s structure. For example, families with two orphans under age 3 will be entitled to 175% support per guardian. For children up to age 15, the support will be 125%, and for teens aged 15–18, a full 100% grant will be provided, replacing the current 50%.
Families caring for more than two orphans will also receive increased support, and single-parent households are now eligible for customized aid packages.
