National Insurance Institute: Disability Pension for Those Earning Up to 8,261 NIS
The general disability pension is intended for individuals whose health condition limits their ability to work. The National Insurance Institute explains eligibility criteria, the application process, medical board procedures, and how to combine the pension with employment.
The general disability pension is a key benefit provided by the National Insurance Institute to individuals whose health condition impairs their ability to work and earn an income. Eligibility is determined based on medical condition, income levels, disability percentage, and the degree of incapacity.
The National Insurance Institute outlines the conditions for receiving the pension, the required documentation, the medical board process, and options for those who wish to continue working while receiving benefits.
In addition to the pension, individuals with disabilities may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation, including study funding and employment assistance. Free support is available at "Yad Mechuvenet" centers to assist with applications and medical board preparation.
Eligibility Criteria
Israeli residents aged 18 to retirement age are eligible if they have a physical, mental, or cognitive impairment resulting from illness, accident, or birth defect. Claims can be filed from age 18 up to 12 months after retirement age.
Key conditions include:
-
Income from work: The individual is either unemployed or earns less than 8,261 NIS (as of January 1, 2026) for 90 consecutive days within the 15 months prior to the claim.
-
Medical disability: A National Insurance Institute doctor has determined a disability of at least 60% (or at least 40% if multiple impairments exist, with at least 25% for a specific condition).
-
Degree of incapacity: The disability has reduced earning capacity by at least 50%. Possible degrees: 60%, 65%, 74%, or 100%.
Filing a Claim
Claims can be submitted online, via phone at 3928*, or by mail/fax to the local branch. Employees must provide 15 recent pay slips; self-employed individuals must submit tax assessments and declare income changes. Non-work income (pensions, alimony, capital income) from the last 15 months must also be reported.
The Medical Board
The board consists of a specialist doctor and a clerk. The doctor reviews medical records and may conduct a physical examination. The board's role is to assess the disability percentage. Applicants may be accompanied by an escort, translator, or lawyer. A photo ID is mandatory for the examination.
Pension Amounts (as of January 1, 2026)
-
100% or 75% incapacity: 4,711 NIS per month.
-
74% incapacity: 3,211 NIS.
-
65% incapacity: 2,894 NIS.
-
60% incapacity: 2,718 NIS.
Supplements for children and spouses are available, subject to income limits (e.g., spouse's gross income must be under 7,848 NIS).
Working While Receiving Benefits
Beneficiaries may work if their gross income remains below 8,261 NIS. If employment ceases or income drops, the pension can be reinstated at the previous rate without a new medical board, provided the incapacity degree remains valid.
Fast Track
Individuals with severe conditions (e.g., malignant diseases, ALS, severe mental impairments) may qualify for a "fast track" process, with claims processed within 30 days.
