Estonia
Policies as of 1 January 2026
Currency: euro (€; EUR)

Contact for technical questions
Please provide the contact information of the person we should contact for any technical follow-up questions or clarifications. If multiple people updated the profile, please make a copy of the table below, and include contact details for each person.
C.Name
EST
Name:
Kristel Abel
C.Title
EST
Title/position:
Head of Communication
C.Org
EST
Organization/Department:
Estonian Social Insurance Board
C.email
EST
Email:
[email protected]
C.phone
EST
Phone number:
+372 52 87238

Guidelines for update
Please review and edit the information to reflect any changes since the last update and correct any inaccuracies. If information is missing, please add a new row to the relevant tables and complete the information. If your system has seen major reforms and the tables are too burdensome, feel free to provide the information as free text by adding a few paragraphs under the given table. If you have any doubts, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or consult the guidelines attached to the original mail.
• Technical note: You may notice that each table has several hidden columns to the left and to the right. Please do not edit these columns. They are used for internal reference. They assign each section, country, and programme a code so that we can import the information into our database.

Profile structure
The profiles are organized in six branches:
• Old age, disability and survivors
• Health and long-term care benefits
• Sickness and maternity
• Accidents at work and occupational diseases
• Unemployment
• Family and household benefits
Each branch includes the following categories:
• Branch overview
• Regulatory framework
• Coverage
• Source of funds
• Benefit details
• Administrative organization


Country notes
R.EN.C3.Reforms
EST
Has there been a reform1 since the last profile update?
Choose an item
Please add a brief description or refer to the adjusted tables (e.g. see changes under old age pension).


1 Reform refers to any significant change in the system. This may be to (1) system type (e.g. social insurance replaced social assistance), (2) paramaters (e.g. change in retirement age, qualifying period, benefit formula, etc.), (3) coverage, or (4) the range of benefits offered (e.g. new benefits introduced or old benefits discontinued), or other aspects. It would not include year-to-year adjustments in benefit amounts, minimums or maximums.

Annex: Reference values (e.g. minimum wages, etc.)
*This section will appear as an annex in the final publication.
C2.Header
blank
Full description
Periodicity
(please select from list)
Type
(please select from list)
Amount
(on 1 January 2026)
Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the amount within a defined period for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
Additional information
(if needed)
Official sources regarding update
XYZ1
XYZ2
R.EN.C2
EST_R_1
Social benefit rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€25.57
Choose an item




R.EN.C2
EST_R_2
Daily work ability allowance
Daily
Base benefit level
€18.60
Choose an item

https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_3
Legal monthly minimum wage
Monthly
Minimum wage
€725.00
Choose an item

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033
Validated based on Establishment of the minimum wage – Riigi Teataja: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033

R.EN.C2
EST_R_5
Monthly national pension rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€336.39
Choose an item

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/pension-ja-seotud-huvitised/pensioni-liigid/rahvapension
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_4
Child allowance rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€80
Choose an item

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/perehuvitised-ja-muud-toetused/peretoetused/lapsetoetus
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_6
National average wage
Monthly
Average wage
€1,981.00
Yes, other

https://www.stat.ee
Validated based on Average gross monthly salary | Statistics Estonia: https://www.stat.ee/et/avasta-statistikat/valdkonnad/tooelu/palk-ja-toojoukulu/keskmine-brutokuupalk



Health and long-term care benefits
Branch overview
If there are nation-wide programmes with a legal basis that are missing from the table and are actively implemented, please include them here and throughout the profile (including social assistance programmes). For special systems for certain groups (e.g. military personnel, civil servants, etc.), scattered programmes at the municipal or regional level, or programmes with wide coverage but no legal basis, please do not add them to the profile, but rather simply add a short description under additional information.
Header.PB1
blank
Type of programme
(please select from list)
Programme name in English
Local name and acronym
(if different than English)
Type of contributions1?
(please select from list)
Are contributions necessary for benefit entitlement?
(please select from list)
Additional information
Programme website or links to information brochures


R.EN.PB1.6
EST_6_1
Social insurance
Health insurance
Ravikindlustuse seadus (RaKS)
Mandatory
Yes




Foootnote 1 Mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are mandatory for at least one group of individuals in the private sector (e.g. all employees, all residents, all non-agricultural workers, etc.). These systems may have exclusions or exemptions for certain groups or offer voluntary coverage for those not mandatorily covered (these can be detailed in the coverage section).
Quasi-mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are initially voluntary for all workers, but once enrolled, members are no longer able to opt out.

Additional branch notes
PB2a.Special.EN
EST.6
Concise description of special systems1 and their coverage



PB2a. Voluntary_informal_self.EN
EST.6
Concise description of any significant, stand-alone programmes for informal workers or self-employed persons with a legal basis, not covered below. Please note if the programme is voluntary or mandatory.

Note: As the profiles focus on mandatory programmes, please do not include further descriptions of stand-alone voluntary programmes in the main profile text below.



PB2a.Branch_note.EN
EST.6
Other branch notes



PB2a.another_branch_YN_id.
EST.6




1 We define a special system as a separate programme that operates in place of the general scheme. Typically, special systems cover groups like military personnel, civil servants, agricultural workers, or self-employed persons, have different rules (e.g. qualifying conditions or benefit calculation), and are administered by a separate organization. Assuming that the programme does not apply to a large share of the private sector (residents, employees, self-employed, etc.), we will only include a short note on its coverage here and no further details elsewhere.

Regulatory framework
Current law(s)
Header.PB3
blank
Law name and number
Year passed
Year implemented
Year(s) of important amendments
Additional information
Link to copy of the law?


R.EN.PB3C.6
6_EST_L_2000_2
Estonian Health Insurance Fund Act of 14 June 2000
2000
2002
Last amended in 2019.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/26422?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.6
6_EST_L_2001_1
Health Services Organization Act of 9 May
2001
2002
Last amended in 2019.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/117052020012?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.6
6_EST_L_2002_2
Health Insurance Act of 16 June
2002
Same as year passed
Last amended in 2023.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/117052020009?leiaKehtiv



Coverage
Header.Pb4new
blank
Programme name
Description of mandatory coverage
Description of
voluntary coverage (including exemptions)
Description of
exclusions
Coverage of specific groups


Header.Pb4new
blank




Is coverage restricted to citizens?1
(please select from list)
Coverage of self-employed persons
(please select from list)
YYY
ZZZ
R.EN.PB4new.6
EST_6_1
Health insurance
Persons with an employment or service contract; self-employed persons; public-sector workers; military personnel; persons receiving certain benefits; caregivers; persons younger than age 19; and students.
Persons who were previously insured for at least 12 months in the last 2 years, for persons receiving a pension from another country, and for crew members.
No exclusions.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Mandatory coverage (general scheme).
Validated based on Health insurance | Health Insurance Fund (tervisekassa.ee): https://www.tervisekassa.ee/inimesele/ravikindlustus

1 Please note that this dropdown complements the description under mandatory coverage by providing additional details on citizenship requirements. Individuals in the selected category must still meet the same conditions (e.g., work, earnings, etc.) as those specified under mandatory coverage.

Source of funds
Programmes funded by contributions (or partially funded by contributions)
Header.PB5a
blank

Programme name and persons1 covered
(please select from list)
Contributions
Income base used to calculate contributions
Government contributions
Additional information (including cross-branch financing)
Official sources regarding update


Header.PB5a
blank


Covered person
Employer
Concise description
Minimum
Maximum





R.EN.PB5.child.6.name_prog
EST_6_1_IP

Health insurance










R.EN.PB5c.child.6
EST_6_1_IP
Base.EST_2_4_IP
Employees (+)
Financing is reported under "Sickness and maternity" (see "Social insurance"). Voluntarily insured persons contribute €219.10 a month.

Kindly confirm whether medical benefits are also financed through the contributions rates reported under S&M (13% of gross earnings payable by employers).The national health insurance scheme covers approximately 95% of the population with a broad range of curative and preventive services as well as some monetary benefits. Revenues stem primarily from earnings-based employer and employee contributions, in addition to state contributions for certain population groups.https://www.haigekassa.ee/en/people/health-care-services/estonian-health-care-system

R.EN.PB5c.child.6
EST_6_1_SE
Base.EST_2_4_SE
Self-employed
Financing is reported under "Sickness and maternity" (see "Social insurance"). Voluntarily insured persons contribute €219.10 a month.

Kindly confirm whether medical benefits are also financed through the contributions rates reported under S&M (13% of gross earnings payable by employers).The national health insurance scheme covers approximately 95% of the population with a broad range of curative and preventive services as well as some monetary benefits. Revenues stem primarily from earnings-based employer and employee contributions, in addition to state contributions for certain population groups.https://www.haigekassa.ee/en/people/health-care-services/estonian-health-care-system

1 "Employees (+)" refers to all persons who are covered who are not self-employed (employees, pensioners, and other protected groups where applicable, such as students, unemployed persons, etc.)

Health care benefits
Health care benefits (Health insurance)
C.B6.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_6_1_1
Benefit name (English)
Health care benefits

ZZZ
C.B6.
name_b_orig
EST_6_1_1
Local name
Ravikindlustus


C.B6.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_6_1_1
Name of related programme
Health insurance


C.B6.
blank.qc
EST_6_1_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B6.
qc
EST_6_1_1
Main qualifying conditions
Permanent residence in Estonia and a valid insurance basis: payment of social tax, insured-equivalent status or a voluntary insurance contract. Persons treated as insured include children under 19, eligible pupils and students, state pension recipients, persons with reduced or no work ability, pregnant women and certain dependent spouses or registered partners. Coverage is also provided to registered unemployed persons, recipients of unemployment insurance benefits, conscripts and certain recipients of family or care benefits.


C.B6.
multiple.dependents_YN.eligible_dependents
EST_6_1_1
Are dependents covered?
Other
Details (if applicable): persons with up to five years left until attaining the retirement age who are maintained by their spouses who are insured persons



C.B6.
blank.ben
EST_6_1_1
Details regarding benefits


C.B6.
ben_insured
EST_6_1_1
Services covered
Pharmaceutical products must be approved by the Ministry of Social Affairs, based on the diagnosis and according to a schedule in law. The insured receives temporary prosthesis after amputation and certain other appliances. Pensioners receive cash benefits for dental prostheses every 3 years. The Health Insurance Fund may authorize planned medical treatment abroad in special cases. Medical benefits for dependents are the same as those for the insured. Children younger than age 19 receive free dental care.


C.B6.
service_prov
EST_6_1_1
Approved service providers and service conditions (1-2 sentences max.)
National and local health care institutions provide medical benefits.


C.B6.
Cost_sharing
EST_6_1_1
Cost sharing (1-2 sentences max.)
The insured pays €2.50 for each prescription and 0%, 10%, 25% or 50% of the remaining cost for certain prescribed medicine according to a schedule in the law. If the price of a product exceeds the reference price (or price agreement), the insured pays the difference. If annual costs of approved medicines exceed €300, 90% of the cost above €300 is reimbursed; if annual prescription costs are from €100 to €300, 50% of the cost above €100 is reimbursed. No or lower (10%) co-payments for medicines children and pensioners. No co-payment is required for certain specialized outpatient care, such as for pregnancy or for a child younger than age 2.
https://www.tervisekassa.ee/en/people/benefits-provided-health-insurance-fund/reimbursement-pharmaceuticals

C.B6.
benLength_full
EST_6_1_1
Benefit duration
The duration of the benefits is unlimited as long as the insured is covered; after coverage ceases, the insured continues to qualify for new benefits for up to 2 months.


C.B6.
blank.info
EST_6_1_1
Additional information



C.B6.
otherInfo
EST_6_1_1
Please provide if necessary




Long-term care benefits
In line with the priorites of the ISSA Programme and Budget on meeting the evolving needs of aging populations, we are collecting information on long-term care benefits. Here, we define long-term care benefits as cash or in-kind benefits for people who, due to frailty, disability or old age, need permanent nursing care or help with daily living activities. Benefits often aim to support home care, residential care, semi-residential care, or other forms of care.
C.B13.
Ben_y_n
EST_6_x_1
Are there any long-term care benefits with a legal basis that are currently missing from the profile?
No
If 'yes', please fill in the table below or provide a brief explanation here. If benefits are already listed elsewhere, please indicate this (no need to repeat the information). If the benefits have different coverage or financing, please add a line to the tables above.



Long-term care benefits (Please provide)
C.B13.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_6_x_1
Benefit name (English)
Long-term care benefits

ZZZ
C.B13.
name_b_orig
EST_6_x_1
Local name



C.B13.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_6_x_1
Name of related programme
Please provide


C.B13.
CB_QC
EST_6_x_1
Qualifying conditions



C.B13.
page
EST_6_x_1
Restrictions related to age



C.B13.
assess_depend
EST_6_x_1
Dependency requirements (including evaluation and review)



C.B13.
other_qc
EST_6_x_1
Other qualifying conditions



C.B13.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_6_x_1
Type of means test
Choose an item
Details (if applicable):


C.B13.
multiple.informal_Y_N.qc_informal
EST_6_x_1
Are informal caregivers eligible for compensation or support under this benefit? (Y/N)
Choose an item
Description of eligible caregivers and compensation or support provided (if applicable):


C.B13.
blank.ben
EST_6_x_1
Details regarding benefits


C.B13.
CB_BEN
EST_6_x_1
Benefit details



C.B13.
ben_insured
EST_6_x_1
Benefits and services provided (including cash benefits)



C.B13.
service_prov
EST_6_x_1
Approved service providers and service conditions
(concise description; 1-2 sentences)



C.B13.
Cost_sharing
EST_6_x_1
Cost sharing
(concise description; 1-2 sentences)



C.B13
blank.supplements
EST_6_x_1
Benefit supplements or sub-benefits
C.B11.
blank.supplements
C.B13
blank.supplements
EST_6_x_1
EST_6_x_1
Local name(s)
Qualifying conditions
Amount


C.B13
multiple.supp_name.supp_name_orig.qc_supp.supp
EST_6_x_1






C.B13.
blank.info
EST_6_x_1
Additional information


C.B13.
otherInfo
EST_6_x_1
Please provide if necessary





Administrative organization
Header.PB6.blank
blank
blank
Organization name
Type of organization
(Please select from list)
Role in relation to programme (Y/N)
Additional information
Website
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB6.6.name_prog
UPI.1
UPI.1.EST_6_1


General supervision
Regulatory functions1
Programme administration
Payment/delivery of benefits2
Collection of contributions
Other notes on role




R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_7
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Ministry of Social Affairs
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
N
N
N
Is responsible for general management, supervision, and planning.

https://www.sm.ee/


R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_4
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Health Insurance Fund
Public (independent agency)
N
N
Y
N
N
Coordinates health insurance and administers benefits.

https://www.tervisekassa.ee/


R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_1
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Doctors, polyclinics, and hospitals
Multiple types of organizations
N
N
N
Y
N





R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_10
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Tax and Customs Office
Public (part of government)
N
N
N
N
Y


https://www.emta.ee/


1 The institution is in charge of developing and enforcing financial, administrative, or operative regulations for the programme. This is often the same organization that oversees general supervision, but can also be an independent body such as superintendents, health regulators, financial regulators, and pensions regulators.
2 Usually this is the same as the administrating organization, but if a separate organization or set of organizations pays benefits, please ensure it is listed in the table.

Estonia
Policies as of 1 January 2026
Currency: euro (€; EUR)

Contact for technical questions
Please provide the contact information of the person we should contact for any technical follow-up questions or clarifications. If multiple people updated the profile, please make a copy of the table below, and include contact details for each person.






Guidelines for update
Please review and edit the information to reflect any changes since the last update and correct any inaccuracies. If information is missing, please add a new row to the relevant tables and complete the information. If your system has seen major reforms and the tables are too burdensome, feel free to provide the information as free text by adding a few paragraphs under the given table. If you have any doubts, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or consult the guidelines attached to the original mail.
• Technical note: You may notice that each table has several hidden columns to the left and to the right. Please do not edit these columns. They are used for internal reference. They assign each section, country, and programme a code so that we can import the information into our database.

Profile structure
The profiles are organized in six branches:
• Old age, disability and survivors
• Health and long-term care benefits
• Sickness and maternity
• Accidents at work and occupational diseases
• Unemployment
• Family and household benefits
Each branch includes the following categories:
• Branch overview
• Regulatory framework
• Coverage
• Source of funds
• Benefit details
• Administrative organization


Country notes
R.EN.C3.Reforms
EST
Has there been a reform1 since the last profile update?
Yes
Unemployemtn allowance and unemployment benefit was merged into basic unemployment insurance benefit starting from January 1, 2026.


1 Reform refers to any significant change in the system. This may be to (1) system type (e.g. social insurance replaced social assistance), (2) paramaters (e.g. change in retirement age, qualifying period, benefit formula, etc.), (3) coverage, or (4) the range of benefits offered (e.g. new benefits introduced or old benefits discontinued), or other aspects. It would not include year-to-year adjustments in benefit amounts, minimums or maximums.

Annex: Reference values (e.g. minimum wages, etc.)
*This section will appear as an annex in the final publication.
C2.Header
blank
Full description
Periodicity
(please select from list)
Type
(please select from list)
Amount
(on 1 January 2026)
Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the amount within a defined period for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
Additional information
(if needed)
Official sources regarding update
XYZ1
XYZ2
R.EN.C2
EST_R_1
Social benefit rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€25.57
No, ad hoc




R.EN.C2
EST_R_2
Daily work ability allowance
Daily
Base benefit level
€18.60
No, ad hoc

https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_3
Legal monthly minimum wage
Monthly
Minimum wage
€725.00
Yes, other

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033
Validated based on Establishment of the minimum wage – Riigi Teataja: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033

R.EN.C2
EST_R_5
Monthly national pension rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€336.39
Yes, annually

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/pension-ja-seotud-huvitised/pensioni-liigid/rahvapension
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_4
Child allowance rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€80
No, ad hoc

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/perehuvitised-ja-muud-toetused/peretoetused/lapsetoetus
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_6
National average wage
Monthly
Average wage
€1,981.00
Yes, other

https://www.stat.ee
Validated based on Average gross monthly salary | Statistics Estonia: https://www.stat.ee/et/avasta-statistikat/valdkonnad/tooelu/palk-ja-toojoukulu/keskmine-brutokuupalk



Old age, disability and survivors
Branch overview
If there are nation-wide programmes with a legal basis that are missing from the table and are actively implemented, please include them here and throughout the profile (including social assistance programmes). For special systems for certain groups (e.g. military personnel, civil servants, etc.), scattered programmes at the municipal or regional level, or programmes with wide coverage but no legal basis, please do not add them to the profile, but rather simply add a short description under additional information.
Header.PB1
blank
Type of programme
(please select from list)
Programme name in English
Local name and acronym
(if different than English)
Type of contributions1?
(please select from list)
Are contributions necessary for benefit entitlement?
(please select from list)
Additional information
Programme website or links to information brochures


R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_4
Universal system

Puuetega inimeste sotsiaaltoetused, matusetoetus
None
No


Editor note: I deleted the CORR’s changes (adding a second universal system). The CORR added benefits, but there should only be one entry for Universal. | I also changed the classification of the Work Ability Allowance, as it is more of a social assistance programme given the means test (see two cells below).

R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_1
Social assistance
National pension, Work ability allowance
Rahvapension, Töövõimetoetus
None
No


Validated with Suggestion: I would add the following Programme website ‘National pension | Social Insurance Board (sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee): https://sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/pension-ja-seotud-huvitised/pensioni-liigid/rahvapension ‘. | #Note_for_records: I’ve changed the classification of the Work ability allowance (Töövõimetoetus) from Universal to Social assistance given that there’s a means test. As such, I’ve made changes so that we refer to ‘Social assistance’ throughout rather than ‘National pension’~

R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_3
Social insurance
State pension
Riiklik pension (I sammas)
Mandatory
Yes


Validated with Suggestion: I would add the following Programme website ‘Pension | Ministry of Social Affairs (sm.ee): https://www.sm.ee/pension ‘.

R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_2
Individual account
Funded pension
Kogumispension (II sammas)
Quasi-mandatory
Yes
Mandatory for persons born after 1 January 1983; however, since 2021 participants may choose to suspend their accounts (contributions cease but accumulated savings remain invested) or withdraw from the programme entirely (the entire account balance is withdrawn and the participant pays a 20% income tax on the funds).

Validated with Suggestion: I would add the following Programme website ‘Funded pension or second pillar — Pensionikeskus: https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/ii-sammas/kogumispension-ehk-ii-sammas/ ‘. | Editor note: added some information based on https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/en/pension-reform-2021/tpid/5639/ and https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/intl_update/2020-10/index.html#estonia: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/intl_update/2020-10/index.html

Foootnote 1 Mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are mandatory for at least one group of individuals in the private sector (e.g. all employees, all residents, all non-agricultural workers, etc.). These systems may have exclusions or exemptions for certain groups or offer voluntary coverage for those not mandatorily covered (these can be detailed in the coverage section).
Quasi-mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are initially voluntary for all workers, but once enrolled, members are no longer able to opt out.

Additional branch notes
PB2a.Special.EN
EST.1
Concise description of special systems1 and their coverage



PB2a. Voluntary_informal_self.EN
EST.1
Concise description of any significant, stand-alone programmes for informal workers or self-employed persons with a legal basis, not covered below. Please note if the programme is voluntary or mandatory.

Note: As the profiles focus on mandatory programmes, please do not include further descriptions of stand-alone voluntary programmes in the main profile text below.



PB2a.Branch_note.EN
EST.1
Other branch notes

#Note_for_records: I’ve deleted two disability pension tables; as noted in the last update, they had been gradually phased out and as of now both have been eliminated and replaced with the work ability allowance.~

PB2a.another_branch_YN_id.
EST.1




1 We define a special system as a separate programme that operates in place of the general scheme. Typically, special systems cover groups like military personnel, civil servants, agricultural workers, or self-employed persons, have different rules (e.g. qualifying conditions or benefit calculation), and are administered by a separate organization. Assuming that the programme does not apply to a large share of the private sector (residents, employees, self-employed, etc.), we will only include a short note on its coverage here and no further details elsewhere.

Regulatory framework
Current law(s)
Header.PB3
blank
Law name and number
Year passed
Year implemented
Year(s) of important amendments
Additional information
Link to copy of the law?


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_1992_1
Superannuated Pensions Act
1992
Same as year passed
1993-1998, 2000-2002, 2006, 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2018.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/127052022051?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_1992_2
Old-Age Pensions under Unfavourable Conditions Act
1992
Same as year passed
1993-1998, 2000-2002, 2005, 2010, 2012, and 2016.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/186725?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_1999_1
Social Benefits for Disabled Persons Act
1999
Same as year passed
With annual amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/13114771?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2001_2
State Pension Insurance Act
2001
2002
With periodic amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/RPKS


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2004_2
Funded Pensions Act
2004
Same as year passed
2021.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/128122020002?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2014_1
Work Ability Allowance Act
2014
2016
With annual amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/124122016018?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2016_1
Investment Funds Act
2016
2017
With annual amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/131122016003?leiaKehtiv



Coverage
Header.Pb4new
blank
Programme name
Description of mandatory coverage
Description of
voluntary coverage (including exemptions)
Description of
exclusions
Coverage of specific groups


Header.Pb4new
blank




Is coverage restricted to citizens?1
(please select from list)
Coverage of self-employed persons
(please select from list)
YYY
ZZZ
R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_4
Universal
Permanent residents of Estonia; noncitizens residing temporarily in Estonia; and legal refugees.


No, all legal residents are covered.
n/a (non-contributory)


R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_1
Social assistance
Permanent residents of Estonia; noncitizens residing temporarily in Estonia; and legal refugees.


No, all legal residents are covered.
n/a (non-contributory)


R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_3
State pension (social insurance)
Permanent residents of Estonia; noncitizens residing temporarily in Estonia; and legal refugees.
No possibility of voluntary coverage.
No exclusions.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Mandatory coverage (general scheme).


R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_2
Funded pension (individual account)
Persons born after 31 December 1982, who are covered by social insurance, including self-employed persons.
Persons born after 31 December 1941 and before 1 January 1983.
Persons who choose to suspend their accounts or withdraw from the programme entirely are excluded from rejoining the programme for 10 years.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Mandatory coverage (general scheme).
Validated based on Joining the II pillar — Pensionikeskus: https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/ii-sammas/liitumine-ii-sambaga/ | See also International Update, October 2020 (ssa.gov): https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/intl_update/2020-10/index.html

1 Please note that this dropdown complements the description under mandatory coverage by providing additional details on citizenship requirements. Individuals in the selected category must still meet the same conditions (e.g., work, earnings, etc.) as those specified under mandatory coverage.

Source of funds
Programmes funded by contributions (or partially funded by contributions)
Header.PB5a
blank

Programme name and persons1 covered
(please select from list)
Contributions
Income base used to calculate contributions
Government contributions
Additional information (including cross-branch financing)
Official sources regarding update


Header.PB5a
blank


Covered person
Employer
Concise description
Minimum
Maximum





R.EN.PB5.cont.1.name_prog
EST_1_3

State pension (social insurance)










R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_3.IP

Employees (+)
None.
16%.
Monthly gross covered payroll.
€654 a month.
No maximum.
Pays contributions for certain categories of insured persons; contributes as an employer.
Contributions also finance work injury benefits.

Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks

R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_3.SE

Self-employed
16%.
n/a
Monthly covered declared earnings.
€654 a month.
No maximum.
Pays contributions for some categories of insured persons.
Contributions also finance work injury benefits.

Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks

R.EN.PB5.cont.1.name_prog
EST_1_2

Funded pension (individual account)










R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_2.IP

Employees (+)
2% plus an administrative fee. Note: Additional voluntary contributions (to a total of 4% or 6%) are possible.
4%.
Monthly gross covered earnings / payroll.
€654 a month.
No maximum.
Contributes as an employer. Note: contributes 4% of average monthly income to a parent raising a child up to age 3 who was born in 2013 or later.


Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks | Added voluntary bit based on https://www.eesti.ee/en/pensions-social-services-and-allowances/pensions/funded-pensions | Added gov’t contribution based on https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/ii-sammas/sissemaksed/vanemapension/

R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_2.SE

Self-employed
4% plus an administrative fee.
n/a
Monthly covered declared earnings.
€654 a month.

None.


Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks

1 "Employees (+)" refers to all persons who are covered who are not self-employed (employees, pensioners, and other protected groups where applicable, such as students, unemployed persons, etc.)

Programmes with no contributions (government pays the total cost)
Header.PB5b
blank
Programme name
Additional notes
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB5.noncont.1
EST_1_4_ALL
Universal
Local governments pay the total cost of the funeral grant.


R.EN.PB5.noncont.1
EST_1_1_ALL
Social assistance




Disability benefits
Work ability allowance (Töövõimetoetus; Social assistance)
C.B2.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_1_1_5
Benefit name (English)
Work ability allowance



C.B2.
name_b_orig
EST_1_1_5
Local name
Töövõimetoetus



C.B2.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_1_1_5
Name of related programme
Social assistance
#Note_for_records: I’ve reclassified this programme as social assistance given there’s a means (benefit and income) test.~


C.B2.
blank.full
EST_1_1_5
Standard or full benefit



C.B2.
blank.qc
EST_1_1_5
Qualifying conditions



C.B2.
qc
EST_1_1_5
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the standard retirement age and be assessed with no work ability. The Unemployment Insurance Fund assesses the work ability.
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/kellel-oigus-toovoimetoetusele


C.B2.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_1_1_5
• Type of means test
Income test
Details (if applicable): Monthly income in the previous month must not exceed €2,790. Additional benefit test: Must not be receiving a pension or certain other benefits.
Validated based on Töövõimetoetuse saamise tingimused | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-saamise-tingimused | Added income test based on https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance | No work ability allowance is paid for the current month if your previous month’s income exceeds EUR 2310,12 for partial work ability and EUR 2790,00 for no work ability.


C.B2.
multiple.cont_emp_Y_N.cont_emp
EST_1_1_5
• Can a pensioner continue or resume work and receive the benefit?
No
Not relevant. A person cannot receive two benefits at the same time, if person is of retirement age, he/she does not qualify for the work ability allowance
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/kellel-oigus-toovoimetoetusele | Editor note: deleted CORR’s sentence; ‘pensioner’ in this instance refers to the beneficiary of the allowance and not an old-age pensioner. That said, a beneficiary can have income, so it seems like the could work. | #Q2CORR: can an individual who is receiving the work ability allowance (and assessed as having no work ability – so receiving 100% of the daily rate) also have earnings from work? The clause on your website implies that this is indeed possible: ‘No work ability allowance is paid for the current month if your previous month’s income exceeds EUR 2310,12 for partial work ability and EUR 2790,00 for no work ability.’


C.B2.
Credited_cont
EST_1_1_5
• Details on credited or purchasable periods
Contributions are not credited.



C.B2.
multiple.payable_abroad_Y_N.payble_abroad
EST_1_1_5
• Are individuals eligible for the benefit if residing abroad in a country without a reciprocal agreement?
No
Paid only under reciprocal agreement (and for EU and EEA residents).



C.B2.
blank.Ben
EST_1_1_5
Details regarding benefit



C.B2.
ben_calc
EST_1_1_5
Benefit calculation rules
Progressive amount (income-related)



C.B2.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_1_1_5
Benefit amount
€18.60 (the daily work ability allowance) multiplied by the number of calendar days in the month. The monthly allowance is reduced by €1 for every €2 of gross monthly earnings exceeding 90 times the daily work ability allowance.
Minimum: See amount.
Maximum: See amount.
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-suurus | Editor note: CORR did not make any substantive changes, so I’ve rejected. The information for partial belongs below.


C.B2.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_1_1_5
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
Yes, annually
Adjusted annually in April according to changes in the consumer price index and the annual increase in social tax contributions.



C.B2.
Periodicity
EST_1_1_5
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic



C.B2.
benLength_full
EST_1_1_5
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
Up to the standard retirement age.



C.B2.
waitPeriod
EST_1_1_5
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
No waiting period applies.



C.B2.
blank.partial
EST_1_1_5
Reduced benefit for a Partial disability (if not included above)


C.B2.
blank.partial
EST_1_1_5
Name(s)
Local name(s)
Qualifying conditions
Amount


C.B2.
multiple.partial_disability_name.partial_disability_name_orig.qc_partial_disability.partial_disability
EST_1_1_5
Partial work ability allowance

Must be aged 16 to the standard retirement age, be assessed with a partial work ability, not be receiving a pension or certain other benefits, and be working, seeking work, studying, raising a child younger than age 3, caring for a family member with a severe disability, receiving certain support for artistic work, receiving certain types of institutional care, or participating in compulsory military service.
The monthly partial work ability allowance is €10.602 (57% of the daily work ability allowance) multiplied by the number of calendar days in the month. The monthly allowance is reduced by €1 for every €2 of monthly earnings exceeding 90 times the daily work ability allowance. Income test: Monthly income in the previous month must not exceed €2,310.12.
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-suurus | Income test added based on: | https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance


C.B2.
blank.info
EST_1_1_5
Additional information



C.B2.
otherInfo
EST_1_1_5
Please provide if necessary

Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-suurus



Administrative organization
Header.PB6.blank
blank
blank
Organization name
Type of organization
(Please select from list)
Related programmes (Y/N)
Role in relation to programme (Y/N)
Additional information
Website


R.EN.PB6.1. name_prog
UPI.4
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2


Universal
Social assistance
State pension (social insurance)
Funded pension (individual account)
General supervision
Regulatory functions1
Programme administration
Payment/delivery of benefits2
Collection of contributions
Other notes on role




R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_7
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Ministry of Social Affairs
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
N
N
N


https://www.sm.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_9
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Social Insurance Board
Public (independent agency)
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
Is responsible for overall planning and coordination.

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_2
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund
Public (independent agency)
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
Administers the work ability allowance.
Under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Affairs.
https://www.tootukassa.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_10
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Tax and Customs Office
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
N
Y


https://www.emta.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_5
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Local governments
Public (part of government)
Y
N
N
N
N
N
N
Y
N
Pay the funeral grant.




R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_6
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Ministry of Finance
Public (part of government)
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Supervises the Financial Supervisory Authority and the Registrar of the Estonian Central Register of Securities.

https://www.fi.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_3
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Financial Supervisory Authority
Public (independent agency)
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Supervises financial services providers, including pension management companies and life insurance companies.

https://www.fi.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_8
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Estonian Central Register of Securities
Multiple types of organizations
N
N
N
Y
N
N
N
N
N
Sets up a mandatory individual pension account for each insured person.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/508112023001/consolide
Validated based on Securities Register Maintenance Act–Riigi Teataja: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/508112023001/consolide

1 The institution is in charge of developing and enforcing financial, administrative, or operative regulations for the programme. This is often the same organization that oversees general supervision, but can also be an independent body such as superintendents, health regulators, financial regulators, and pensions regulators.
2 Usually this is the same as the administrating organization, but if a separate organization or set of organizations pays benefits, please ensure it is listed in the table.

Unemployment benefits
Branch overview
If there are nation-wide programmes with a legal basis that are missing from the table and are actively implemented, please include them here and throughout the profile (including social assistance programmes). For special systems for certain groups (e.g. military personnel, civil servants, etc.), scattered programmes at the municipal or regional level, or programmes with wide coverage but no legal basis, please do not add them to the profile, but rather simply add a short description under additional information.
Header.PB1
blank
Type of programme
(please select from list)
Programme name in English
Local name and acronym
(if different than English)
Type of contributions1?
(please select from list)
Are contributions necessary for benefit entitlement?
(please select from list)
Additional information
Programme website or links to information brochures


R.EN.PB1.4
EST_4_2
Social insurance
Unemployment insurance
Töötuskindlustushüvitis
Mandatory
Yes




R.EN.PB1.4
EST_4_1
Social assistance
Unemployment allowance
Töötutoetus
None
No




Foootnote 1 Mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are mandatory for at least one group of individuals in the private sector (e.g. all employees, all residents, all non-agricultural workers, etc.). These systems may have exclusions or exemptions for certain groups or offer voluntary coverage for those not mandatorily covered (these can be detailed in the coverage section).
Quasi-mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are initially voluntary for all workers, but once enrolled, members are no longer able to opt out.

Additional branch notes
PB2a.Special.EN
EST.4
Concise description of special systems1 and their coverage



PB2a. Voluntary_informal_self.EN
EST.4
Concise description of any significant, stand-alone programmes for informal workers or self-employed persons with a legal basis, not covered below. Please note if the programme is voluntary or mandatory.

Note: As the profiles focus on mandatory programmes, please do not include further descriptions of stand-alone voluntary programmes in the main profile text below.



PB2a.Branch_note.EN
EST.4
Other branch notes



PB2a.another_branch_YN_id.
EST.4




1 We define a special system as a separate programme that operates in place of the general scheme. Typically, special systems cover groups like military personnel, civil servants, agricultural workers, or self-employed persons, have different rules (e.g. qualifying conditions or benefit calculation), and are administered by a separate organization. Assuming that the programme does not apply to a large share of the private sector (residents, employees, self-employed, etc.), we will only include a short note on its coverage here and no further details elsewhere.

Regulatory framework
Current law(s)
Header.PB3
blank
Law name and number
Year passed
Year implemented
Year(s) of important amendments
Additional information
Link to copy of the law?


R.EN.PB3C.4
4_EST_L_2001_3
Unemployment Insurance Act
2001
Same as year passed
Last amended in 2020.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/512082020014/consolide


R.EN.PB3C.4
4_EST_L_2005_1
Labour Market Services and Benefits Act
2005
Same as year passed
Last amended in 2020.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/512082020015/consolide


R.EN.PB3F.4
4_EST_LF_1991_1
#Q2CORR: Please provide the name and number of the law.~
1991
Same as year passed






Coverage
Header.Pb4new
blank
Programme name
Description of mandatory coverage
Description of
voluntary coverage (including exemptions)
Description of
exclusions
Coverage of specific groups


Header.Pb4new
blank




Is coverage restricted to citizens?1
(please select from list)
Coverage of self-employed persons
(please select from list)
YYY
ZZZ
R.EN.PB4new.4
EST_4_2
Unemployment insurance
Permanent residents of Estonia, noncitizens residing in Estonia with a temporary residence permit, and legal refugees.
No possibility of voluntary coverage.
Self-employed persons, and persons who have achieved the standard retirement age.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Excluded.


R.EN.PB4new.4
EST_4_1
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)
Permanent residents of Estonia, noncitizens residing in Estonia with a temporary residence permit, and legal refugees.


No, all legal residents are covered.
n/a (non-contributory)


1 Please note that this dropdown complements the description under mandatory coverage by providing additional details on citizenship requirements. Individuals in the selected category must still meet the same conditions (e.g., work, earnings, etc.) as those specified under mandatory coverage.

Source of funds
Programmes funded by contributions (or partially funded by contributions)
Header.PB5a
blank

Programme name and persons1 covered
(please select from list)
Contributions
Income base used to calculate contributions
Government contributions
Additional information (including cross-branch financing)
Official sources regarding update


Header.PB5a
blank


Covered person
Employer
Concise description
Minimum
Maximum





R.EN.PB5.cont.4.name_prog
EST_4_2

Unemployment insurance










R.EN.PB5.cont.4
EST_4_2.IP

Employees (+)
1.6%.
0.8%.
Monthly gross earnings / payroll.


None; contributes as an employer.


Validated based on Tax rates | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/maksumaarad

1 "Employees (+)" refers to all persons who are covered who are not self-employed (employees, pensioners, and other protected groups where applicable, such as students, unemployed persons, etc.)

Programmes with no contributions (government pays the total cost)
Header.PB5b
blank
Programme name
Additional notes
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB5.noncont.4
EST_4_1_ALL
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)




Unemployment benefits
Unemployment benefit (Töötuskindlustushüvitis; Unemployment insurance) in effect until 31.12.2025
C.B11.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_4_2_1
Benefit name (English)
Unemployment benefit

ZZZ
C.B11.
name_b_orig
EST_4_2_1
Local name
Töötuskindlustushüvitis


C.B11.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_4_2_1
Name of related programme
Unemployment insurance


C.B11.
blank.qc
EST_4_2_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B11.
qc
EST_4_2_1
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the standard retirement age (except for early pensioners), capable of gainful activity, registered as unemployed with an employment office of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, and involuntarily unemployed with at least 12 months of insured work in the 36 months before registering as unemployed.


C.B11.
blank.Ben
EST_4_2_1
Details regarding benefit


C.B11.
ben_calc
EST_4_2_1
Benefit calculation rules
Wage replacement


C.B11.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_4_2_1
Benefit amount
60% of reference earnings is paid for the first 100 calendar days; thereafter, 40% of reference earnings.
Minimum: €10.90 a day.
Maximum: 60 or 40% of 3 times the average wage per calendar day.
Validated July 2023 amount based on https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/uudised/alanud-aastal-tousevad-mitmed-eesti-tootukassa-toetused-ja-huvitised | Validated based on Unemployment insurance benefit | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-insurance-benefit | Editor note: changed the percentage for the first 100 days based on: | https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-insurance-benefit

C.B11.
multiple.RefWage.RefWageMin.RefWageMax
EST_4_2_1
• Definition of reference earnings used in benefit calculation
Definition: The insured’s average earnings in the 9 months prior to the 3 months immediately before unemployment began, divided by 30.
Minimum: The legal daily minimum wage.
Maximum: Three times the national average wage (see Annex).
Editor note: I could not validate what the legal daily minimum wage is, and we also don’t include it under reference values above. So I’ve left as is.

C.B11.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_4_2_1
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
No, ad hoc
An unemployment allowance granted in 2025 will continue to be paid in 2026. 


C.B11.
Periodicity
EST_4_2_1
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic


C.B11.
benLength_full
EST_4_2_1
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
180 calendar days with up to 60 months of coverage; 210 calendar days with 60 to 120 months of coverage; or 300 calendar days with at least 120 months of coverage. Under certain labour market conditions, may be extended if the insured had at least 60 months of coverage.
Validated based on Payment period of the unemployment insurance benefit | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-insurance-benefit/payment-period-unemployment-insurance-benefit

C.B11.
waitPeriod
EST_4_2_1
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
A waiting period of 7 calendar days.


C.B11.
blank.info
EST_4_2_1
Additional information


C.B11.
otherInfo
EST_4_2_1
Please provide if necessary





Unemployment allowance (Töötutoetus; Unemployment allowance (social assistance) – was in effect until 31.12.2025
C.B11.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_4_1_1
Benefit name (English)
Unemployment allowance

ZZZ
C.B11.
name_b_orig
EST_4_1_1
Local name
Töötutoetus


C.B11.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_4_1_1
Name of related programme
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)


C.B11.
blank.qc
EST_4_1_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B11.
qc
EST_4_1_1
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the normal retirement age (except for early pensioners), capable of gainful activity, registered as unemployed with an employment office of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, have at least 180 calendar days of employment in the 12 months before registering as unemployed. Employment periods include full-time education, military service, raising a child younger than age 7, treatment in a hospital, caring for a sick person, or periods of disability or detention.


C.B11.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_4_1_1
• Type of means test
Income test
Details (if applicable): Daily personal income must be less than the value of the daily unemployment allowance.


C.B11.
blank.Ben
EST_4_1_1
Details regarding benefit


C.B11.
ben_calc
EST_4_1_1
Benefit calculation rules
Flat-rate amount


C.B11.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_4_1_1
Benefit amount
€10.55 a day.
Minimum: See amount.
Maximum: See amount.
Validated based on Unemployment allowance | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-allowance

C.B11.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_4_1_1
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
No, ad hoc
N/A An unemployment allowance granted in 2025 will continue to be paid in 2026. 
#Q2CORR: Kindly specify how often and based on which mechanism or logic the benefit is adjusted.~

C.B11.
Periodicity
EST_4_1_1
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic


C.B11.
benLength_full
EST_4_1_1
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
Up to 270 calendar days; 210 calendar days for unemployed persons who are dismissed by their employer for a breach of duties, loss of confidence, or indecent act.


C.B11.
extension
EST_4_1_1
• Description of extensions
May be extended up to the normal retirement age (except for early pensioners) if there are less than 180 calendar days until the beneficiary reaches the normal retirement age (except for early pensioners).


C.B11.
waitPeriod
EST_4_1_1
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
A waiting period of 7 calendar days (60 calendar days from the date of registration as unemployed for recently graduated students).


C.B11.
blank.info
EST_4_1_1
Additional information


C.B11.
otherInfo
EST_4_1_1
Please provide if necessary



Basic unemployment insurance benefit (baasmääras töötuskindlustushüvitis)
C.B11.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_4_1_1
Benefit name (English)
Unemployment allowance

ZZZ
C.B11.
name_b_orig
EST_4_1_1
Local name
baasmääras töötuskindlustushüvitis


C.B11.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_4_1_1
Name of related programme
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)


C.B11.
blank.qc
EST_4_1_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B11.
qc
EST_4_1_1
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the normal retirement age, capable of gainful activity, registered as unemployed with an employment office of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund


C.B11.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_4_1_1
• Type of means test
Income test
Details (if applicable): Daily personal income must be less than the value of the daily unemployment allowance.


C.B11.
blank.Ben
EST_4_1_1
Details regarding benefit


C.B11.
ben_calc
EST_4_1_1
Benefit calculation rules
Flat-rate amount


C.B11.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_4_1_1
Benefit amount
€14.30 a day.
Minimum: See amount.
Maximum: See amount.
Validated based on Unemployment allowance | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-allowance

C.B11.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_4_1_1
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
No, ad hoc

#Q2CORR: Kindly specify how often and based on which mechanism or logic the benefit is adjusted.~

C.B11.
Periodicity
EST_4_1_1
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic


C.B11.
benLength_full
EST_4_1_1
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
Up to 270 calendar days; 210 calendar days


C.B11.
extension
EST_4_1_1
• Description of extensions
May be extended up to the normal retirement age if there are less than 180 calendar days until the beneficiary reaches the normal retirement age.


C.B11.
waitPeriod
EST_4_1_1
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
Unemployment benefit is generally paid within five working days after the last counseling and upon termination of registration as unemployed within five working days after the decision to terminate the payment of unemployment benefit is confirmed.


C.B11.
blank.info
EST_4_1_1
Additional information


C.B11.
otherInfo
EST_4_1_1
Please provide if necessary





Administrative organization
Header.PB6.blank
blank
blank
Organization name
Type of organization
(Please select from list)
Related programmes (Y/N)
Role in relation to programme (Y/N)
Additional information
Website
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB6.4.name_prog
UPI.2
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1


Unemployment insurance
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)
General supervision
Regulatory functions1
Programme administration
Payment/delivery of benefits2
Collection of contributions
Other notes on role




R.EN.PB6.4
EST_AO_2
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund
Public (independent agency)
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
N
Also registers the unemployed.
Under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Affairs.
https://www.tootukassa.ee/


R.EN.PB6.4
EST_AO_7
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1
Ministry of Social Affairs
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Supervises the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund.

https://www.sm.ee/


R.EN.PB6.4
EST_AO_10
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1
Tax and Customs Office
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
Y


https://www.emta.ee/


1 The institution is in charge of developing and enforcing financial, administrative, or operative regulations for the programme. This is often the same organization that oversees general supervision, but can also be an independent body such as superintendents, health regulators, financial regulators, and pensions regulators.
2 Usually this is the same as the administrating organization, but if a separate organization or set of organizations pays benefits, please ensure it is listed in the table.

Estonia
Policies as of 1 January 2026
Currency: euro (€; EUR)

Contact for technical questions
Please provide the contact information of the person we should contact for any technical follow-up questions or clarifications. If multiple people updated the profile, please make a copy of the table below, and include contact details for each person.
C.Name
EST
Name:
Kristel Abel
C.Title
EST
Title/position:
Head of Communication
C.Org
EST
Organization/Department:
Estonian Social Insurance Board
C.email
EST
Email:
[email protected]
C.phone
EST
Phone number:
+372 52 87238

Guidelines for update
Please review and edit the information to reflect any changes since the last update and correct any inaccuracies. If information is missing, please add a new row to the relevant tables and complete the information. If your system has seen major reforms and the tables are too burdensome, feel free to provide the information as free text by adding a few paragraphs under the given table. If you have any doubts, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or consult the guidelines attached to the original mail.
• Technical note: You may notice that each table has several hidden columns to the left and to the right. Please do not edit these columns. They are used for internal reference. They assign each section, country, and programme a code so that we can import the information into our database.

Profile structure
The profiles are organized in six branches:
• Old age, disability and survivors
• Health and long-term care benefits
• Sickness and maternity
• Accidents at work and occupational diseases
• Unemployment
• Family and household benefits
Each branch includes the following categories:
• Branch overview
• Regulatory framework
• Coverage
• Source of funds
• Benefit details
• Administrative organization


Country notes
R.EN.C3.Reforms
EST
Has there been a reform1 since the last profile update?
Choose an item
Please add a brief description or refer to the adjusted tables (e.g. see changes under old age pension).


1 Reform refers to any significant change in the system. This may be to (1) system type (e.g. social insurance replaced social assistance), (2) paramaters (e.g. change in retirement age, qualifying period, benefit formula, etc.), (3) coverage, or (4) the range of benefits offered (e.g. new benefits introduced or old benefits discontinued), or other aspects. It would not include year-to-year adjustments in benefit amounts, minimums or maximums.

Annex: Reference values (e.g. minimum wages, etc.)
*This section will appear as an annex in the final publication.
C2.Header
blank
Full description
Periodicity
(please select from list)
Type
(please select from list)
Amount
(on 1 January 2026)
Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the amount within a defined period for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
Additional information
(if needed)
Official sources regarding update
XYZ1
XYZ2
R.EN.C2
EST_R_1
Social benefit rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€25.57
Choose an item




R.EN.C2
EST_R_2
Daily work ability allowance
Daily
Base benefit level
€18.60
Choose an item

https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_3
Legal monthly minimum wage
Monthly
Minimum wage
€725.00
Choose an item

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033
Validated based on Establishment of the minimum wage – Riigi Teataja: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033

R.EN.C2
EST_R_5
Monthly national pension rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€336.39
Choose an item

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/pension-ja-seotud-huvitised/pensioni-liigid/rahvapension
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_4
Child allowance rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€80
Choose an item

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/perehuvitised-ja-muud-toetused/peretoetused/lapsetoetus
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_6
National average wage
Monthly
Average wage
€1,981.00
Yes, other

https://www.stat.ee
Validated based on Average gross monthly salary | Statistics Estonia: https://www.stat.ee/et/avasta-statistikat/valdkonnad/tooelu/palk-ja-toojoukulu/keskmine-brutokuupalk



Health and long-term care benefits
Branch overview
If there are nation-wide programmes with a legal basis that are missing from the table and are actively implemented, please include them here and throughout the profile (including social assistance programmes). For special systems for certain groups (e.g. military personnel, civil servants, etc.), scattered programmes at the municipal or regional level, or programmes with wide coverage but no legal basis, please do not add them to the profile, but rather simply add a short description under additional information.
Header.PB1
blank
Type of programme
(please select from list)
Programme name in English
Local name and acronym
(if different than English)
Type of contributions1?
(please select from list)
Are contributions necessary for benefit entitlement?
(please select from list)
Additional information
Programme website or links to information brochures


R.EN.PB1.6
EST_6_1
Social insurance
Health insurance
Ravikindlustuse seadus (RaKS)
Mandatory
Yes




Foootnote 1 Mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are mandatory for at least one group of individuals in the private sector (e.g. all employees, all residents, all non-agricultural workers, etc.). These systems may have exclusions or exemptions for certain groups or offer voluntary coverage for those not mandatorily covered (these can be detailed in the coverage section).
Quasi-mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are initially voluntary for all workers, but once enrolled, members are no longer able to opt out.

Additional branch notes
PB2a.Special.EN
EST.6
Concise description of special systems1 and their coverage



PB2a. Voluntary_informal_self.EN
EST.6
Concise description of any significant, stand-alone programmes for informal workers or self-employed persons with a legal basis, not covered below. Please note if the programme is voluntary or mandatory.

Note: As the profiles focus on mandatory programmes, please do not include further descriptions of stand-alone voluntary programmes in the main profile text below.



PB2a.Branch_note.EN
EST.6
Other branch notes



PB2a.another_branch_YN_id.
EST.6




1 We define a special system as a separate programme that operates in place of the general scheme. Typically, special systems cover groups like military personnel, civil servants, agricultural workers, or self-employed persons, have different rules (e.g. qualifying conditions or benefit calculation), and are administered by a separate organization. Assuming that the programme does not apply to a large share of the private sector (residents, employees, self-employed, etc.), we will only include a short note on its coverage here and no further details elsewhere.

Regulatory framework
Current law(s)
Header.PB3
blank
Law name and number
Year passed
Year implemented
Year(s) of important amendments
Additional information
Link to copy of the law?


R.EN.PB3C.6
6_EST_L_2000_2
Estonian Health Insurance Fund Act of 14 June 2000
2000
2002
Last amended in 2019.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/26422?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.6
6_EST_L_2001_1
Health Services Organization Act of 9 May
2001
2002
Last amended in 2019.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/117052020012?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.6
6_EST_L_2002_2
Health Insurance Act of 16 June
2002
Same as year passed
Last amended in 2023.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/117052020009?leiaKehtiv



Coverage
Header.Pb4new
blank
Programme name
Description of mandatory coverage
Description of
voluntary coverage (including exemptions)
Description of
exclusions
Coverage of specific groups


Header.Pb4new
blank




Is coverage restricted to citizens?1
(please select from list)
Coverage of self-employed persons
(please select from list)
YYY
ZZZ
R.EN.PB4new.6
EST_6_1
Health insurance
Persons with an employment or service contract; self-employed persons; public-sector workers; military personnel; persons receiving certain benefits; caregivers; persons younger than age 19; and students.
Persons who were previously insured for at least 12 months in the last 2 years, for persons receiving a pension from another country, and for crew members.
No exclusions.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Mandatory coverage (general scheme).
Validated based on Health insurance | Health Insurance Fund (tervisekassa.ee): https://www.tervisekassa.ee/inimesele/ravikindlustus

1 Please note that this dropdown complements the description under mandatory coverage by providing additional details on citizenship requirements. Individuals in the selected category must still meet the same conditions (e.g., work, earnings, etc.) as those specified under mandatory coverage.

Source of funds
Programmes funded by contributions (or partially funded by contributions)
Header.PB5a
blank

Programme name and persons1 covered
(please select from list)
Contributions
Income base used to calculate contributions
Government contributions
Additional information (including cross-branch financing)
Official sources regarding update


Header.PB5a
blank


Covered person
Employer
Concise description
Minimum
Maximum





R.EN.PB5.child.6.name_prog
EST_6_1_IP

Health insurance










R.EN.PB5c.child.6
EST_6_1_IP
Base.EST_2_4_IP
Employees (+)
Financing is reported under "Sickness and maternity" (see "Social insurance"). Voluntarily insured persons contribute €219.10 a month.

Kindly confirm whether medical benefits are also financed through the contributions rates reported under S&M (13% of gross earnings payable by employers).The national health insurance scheme covers approximately 95% of the population with a broad range of curative and preventive services as well as some monetary benefits. Revenues stem primarily from earnings-based employer and employee contributions, in addition to state contributions for certain population groups.https://www.haigekassa.ee/en/people/health-care-services/estonian-health-care-system

R.EN.PB5c.child.6
EST_6_1_SE
Base.EST_2_4_SE
Self-employed
Financing is reported under "Sickness and maternity" (see "Social insurance"). Voluntarily insured persons contribute €219.10 a month.

Kindly confirm whether medical benefits are also financed through the contributions rates reported under S&M (13% of gross earnings payable by employers).The national health insurance scheme covers approximately 95% of the population with a broad range of curative and preventive services as well as some monetary benefits. Revenues stem primarily from earnings-based employer and employee contributions, in addition to state contributions for certain population groups.https://www.haigekassa.ee/en/people/health-care-services/estonian-health-care-system

1 "Employees (+)" refers to all persons who are covered who are not self-employed (employees, pensioners, and other protected groups where applicable, such as students, unemployed persons, etc.)

Health care benefits
Health care benefits (Health insurance)
C.B6.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_6_1_1
Benefit name (English)
Health care benefits

ZZZ
C.B6.
name_b_orig
EST_6_1_1
Local name
Ravikindlustus


C.B6.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_6_1_1
Name of related programme
Health insurance


C.B6.
blank.qc
EST_6_1_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B6.
qc
EST_6_1_1
Main qualifying conditions
Permanent residence in Estonia and a valid insurance basis: payment of social tax, insured-equivalent status or a voluntary insurance contract. Persons treated as insured include children under 19, eligible pupils and students, state pension recipients, persons with reduced or no work ability, pregnant women and certain dependent spouses or registered partners. Coverage is also provided to registered unemployed persons, recipients of unemployment insurance benefits, conscripts and certain recipients of family or care benefits.


C.B6.
multiple.dependents_YN.eligible_dependents
EST_6_1_1
Are dependents covered?
Other
Details (if applicable): persons with up to five years left until attaining the retirement age who are maintained by their spouses who are insured persons



C.B6.
blank.ben
EST_6_1_1
Details regarding benefits


C.B6.
ben_insured
EST_6_1_1
Services covered
Pharmaceutical products must be approved by the Ministry of Social Affairs, based on the diagnosis and according to a schedule in law. The insured receives temporary prosthesis after amputation and certain other appliances. Pensioners receive cash benefits for dental prostheses every 3 years. The Health Insurance Fund may authorize planned medical treatment abroad in special cases. Medical benefits for dependents are the same as those for the insured. Children younger than age 19 receive free dental care.


C.B6.
service_prov
EST_6_1_1
Approved service providers and service conditions (1-2 sentences max.)
National and local health care institutions provide medical benefits.


C.B6.
Cost_sharing
EST_6_1_1
Cost sharing (1-2 sentences max.)
The insured pays €2.50 for each prescription and 0%, 10%, 25% or 50% of the remaining cost for certain prescribed medicine according to a schedule in the law. If the price of a product exceeds the reference price (or price agreement), the insured pays the difference. If annual costs of approved medicines exceed €300, 90% of the cost above €300 is reimbursed; if annual prescription costs are from €100 to €300, 50% of the cost above €100 is reimbursed. No or lower (10%) co-payments for medicines children and pensioners. No co-payment is required for certain specialized outpatient care, such as for pregnancy or for a child younger than age 2.
https://www.tervisekassa.ee/en/people/benefits-provided-health-insurance-fund/reimbursement-pharmaceuticals

C.B6.
benLength_full
EST_6_1_1
Benefit duration
The duration of the benefits is unlimited as long as the insured is covered; after coverage ceases, the insured continues to qualify for new benefits for up to 2 months.


C.B6.
blank.info
EST_6_1_1
Additional information



C.B6.
otherInfo
EST_6_1_1
Please provide if necessary




Long-term care benefits
In line with the priorites of the ISSA Programme and Budget on meeting the evolving needs of aging populations, we are collecting information on long-term care benefits. Here, we define long-term care benefits as cash or in-kind benefits for people who, due to frailty, disability or old age, need permanent nursing care or help with daily living activities. Benefits often aim to support home care, residential care, semi-residential care, or other forms of care.
C.B13.
Ben_y_n
EST_6_x_1
Are there any long-term care benefits with a legal basis that are currently missing from the profile?
No
If 'yes', please fill in the table below or provide a brief explanation here. If benefits are already listed elsewhere, please indicate this (no need to repeat the information). If the benefits have different coverage or financing, please add a line to the tables above.



Long-term care benefits (Please provide)
C.B13.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_6_x_1
Benefit name (English)
Long-term care benefits

ZZZ
C.B13.
name_b_orig
EST_6_x_1
Local name



C.B13.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_6_x_1
Name of related programme
Please provide


C.B13.
CB_QC
EST_6_x_1
Qualifying conditions



C.B13.
page
EST_6_x_1
Restrictions related to age



C.B13.
assess_depend
EST_6_x_1
Dependency requirements (including evaluation and review)



C.B13.
other_qc
EST_6_x_1
Other qualifying conditions



C.B13.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_6_x_1
Type of means test
Choose an item
Details (if applicable):


C.B13.
multiple.informal_Y_N.qc_informal
EST_6_x_1
Are informal caregivers eligible for compensation or support under this benefit? (Y/N)
Choose an item
Description of eligible caregivers and compensation or support provided (if applicable):


C.B13.
blank.ben
EST_6_x_1
Details regarding benefits


C.B13.
CB_BEN
EST_6_x_1
Benefit details



C.B13.
ben_insured
EST_6_x_1
Benefits and services provided (including cash benefits)



C.B13.
service_prov
EST_6_x_1
Approved service providers and service conditions
(concise description; 1-2 sentences)



C.B13.
Cost_sharing
EST_6_x_1
Cost sharing
(concise description; 1-2 sentences)



C.B13
blank.supplements
EST_6_x_1
Benefit supplements or sub-benefits
C.B11.
blank.supplements
C.B13
blank.supplements
EST_6_x_1
EST_6_x_1
Local name(s)
Qualifying conditions
Amount


C.B13
multiple.supp_name.supp_name_orig.qc_supp.supp
EST_6_x_1






C.B13.
blank.info
EST_6_x_1
Additional information


C.B13.
otherInfo
EST_6_x_1
Please provide if necessary





Administrative organization
Header.PB6.blank
blank
blank
Organization name
Type of organization
(Please select from list)
Role in relation to programme (Y/N)
Additional information
Website
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB6.6.name_prog
UPI.1
UPI.1.EST_6_1


General supervision
Regulatory functions1
Programme administration
Payment/delivery of benefits2
Collection of contributions
Other notes on role




R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_7
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Ministry of Social Affairs
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
N
N
N
Is responsible for general management, supervision, and planning.

https://www.sm.ee/


R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_4
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Health Insurance Fund
Public (independent agency)
N
N
Y
N
N
Coordinates health insurance and administers benefits.

https://www.tervisekassa.ee/


R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_1
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Doctors, polyclinics, and hospitals
Multiple types of organizations
N
N
N
Y
N





R.EN.PB6.6
EST_AO_10
UPI.1.EST_6_1
Tax and Customs Office
Public (part of government)
N
N
N
N
Y


https://www.emta.ee/


1 The institution is in charge of developing and enforcing financial, administrative, or operative regulations for the programme. This is often the same organization that oversees general supervision, but can also be an independent body such as superintendents, health regulators, financial regulators, and pensions regulators.
2 Usually this is the same as the administrating organization, but if a separate organization or set of organizations pays benefits, please ensure it is listed in the table.

Estonia
Policies as of 1 January 2026
Currency: euro (€; EUR)

Contact for technical questions
Please provide the contact information of the person we should contact for any technical follow-up questions or clarifications. If multiple people updated the profile, please make a copy of the table below, and include contact details for each person.






Guidelines for update
Please review and edit the information to reflect any changes since the last update and correct any inaccuracies. If information is missing, please add a new row to the relevant tables and complete the information. If your system has seen major reforms and the tables are too burdensome, feel free to provide the information as free text by adding a few paragraphs under the given table. If you have any doubts, feel free to reach out at [email protected] or consult the guidelines attached to the original mail.
• Technical note: You may notice that each table has several hidden columns to the left and to the right. Please do not edit these columns. They are used for internal reference. They assign each section, country, and programme a code so that we can import the information into our database.

Profile structure
The profiles are organized in six branches:
• Old age, disability and survivors
• Health and long-term care benefits
• Sickness and maternity
• Accidents at work and occupational diseases
• Unemployment
• Family and household benefits
Each branch includes the following categories:
• Branch overview
• Regulatory framework
• Coverage
• Source of funds
• Benefit details
• Administrative organization


Country notes
R.EN.C3.Reforms
EST
Has there been a reform1 since the last profile update?
Yes
Unemployemtn allowance and unemployment benefit was merged into basic unemployment insurance benefit starting from January 1, 2026.


1 Reform refers to any significant change in the system. This may be to (1) system type (e.g. social insurance replaced social assistance), (2) paramaters (e.g. change in retirement age, qualifying period, benefit formula, etc.), (3) coverage, or (4) the range of benefits offered (e.g. new benefits introduced or old benefits discontinued), or other aspects. It would not include year-to-year adjustments in benefit amounts, minimums or maximums.

Annex: Reference values (e.g. minimum wages, etc.)
*This section will appear as an annex in the final publication.
C2.Header
blank
Full description
Periodicity
(please select from list)
Type
(please select from list)
Amount
(on 1 January 2026)
Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the amount within a defined period for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
Additional information
(if needed)
Official sources regarding update
XYZ1
XYZ2
R.EN.C2
EST_R_1
Social benefit rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€25.57
No, ad hoc




R.EN.C2
EST_R_2
Daily work ability allowance
Daily
Base benefit level
€18.60
No, ad hoc

https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_3
Legal monthly minimum wage
Monthly
Minimum wage
€725.00
Yes, other

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033
Validated based on Establishment of the minimum wage – Riigi Teataja: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/113122022033

R.EN.C2
EST_R_5
Monthly national pension rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€336.39
Yes, annually

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/pension-ja-seotud-huvitised/pensioni-liigid/rahvapension
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_4
Child allowance rate
Monthly
Base benefit level
€80
No, ad hoc

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/perehuvitised-ja-muud-toetused/peretoetused/lapsetoetus
Validated

R.EN.C2
EST_R_6
National average wage
Monthly
Average wage
€1,981.00
Yes, other

https://www.stat.ee
Validated based on Average gross monthly salary | Statistics Estonia: https://www.stat.ee/et/avasta-statistikat/valdkonnad/tooelu/palk-ja-toojoukulu/keskmine-brutokuupalk



Old age, disability and survivors
Branch overview
If there are nation-wide programmes with a legal basis that are missing from the table and are actively implemented, please include them here and throughout the profile (including social assistance programmes). For special systems for certain groups (e.g. military personnel, civil servants, etc.), scattered programmes at the municipal or regional level, or programmes with wide coverage but no legal basis, please do not add them to the profile, but rather simply add a short description under additional information.
Header.PB1
blank
Type of programme
(please select from list)
Programme name in English
Local name and acronym
(if different than English)
Type of contributions1?
(please select from list)
Are contributions necessary for benefit entitlement?
(please select from list)
Additional information
Programme website or links to information brochures


R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_4
Universal system

Puuetega inimeste sotsiaaltoetused, matusetoetus
None
No


Editor note: I deleted the CORR’s changes (adding a second universal system). The CORR added benefits, but there should only be one entry for Universal. | I also changed the classification of the Work Ability Allowance, as it is more of a social assistance programme given the means test (see two cells below).

R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_1
Social assistance
National pension, Work ability allowance
Rahvapension, Töövõimetoetus
None
No


Validated with Suggestion: I would add the following Programme website ‘National pension | Social Insurance Board (sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee): https://sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/pension-ja-seotud-huvitised/pensioni-liigid/rahvapension ‘. | #Note_for_records: I’ve changed the classification of the Work ability allowance (Töövõimetoetus) from Universal to Social assistance given that there’s a means test. As such, I’ve made changes so that we refer to ‘Social assistance’ throughout rather than ‘National pension’~

R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_3
Social insurance
State pension
Riiklik pension (I sammas)
Mandatory
Yes


Validated with Suggestion: I would add the following Programme website ‘Pension | Ministry of Social Affairs (sm.ee): https://www.sm.ee/pension ‘.

R.EN.PB1.1
EST_1_2
Individual account
Funded pension
Kogumispension (II sammas)
Quasi-mandatory
Yes
Mandatory for persons born after 1 January 1983; however, since 2021 participants may choose to suspend their accounts (contributions cease but accumulated savings remain invested) or withdraw from the programme entirely (the entire account balance is withdrawn and the participant pays a 20% income tax on the funds).

Validated with Suggestion: I would add the following Programme website ‘Funded pension or second pillar — Pensionikeskus: https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/ii-sammas/kogumispension-ehk-ii-sammas/ ‘. | Editor note: added some information based on https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/en/pension-reform-2021/tpid/5639/ and https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/intl_update/2020-10/index.html#estonia: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/intl_update/2020-10/index.html

Foootnote 1 Mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are mandatory for at least one group of individuals in the private sector (e.g. all employees, all residents, all non-agricultural workers, etc.). These systems may have exclusions or exemptions for certain groups or offer voluntary coverage for those not mandatorily covered (these can be detailed in the coverage section).
Quasi-mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are initially voluntary for all workers, but once enrolled, members are no longer able to opt out.

Additional branch notes
PB2a.Special.EN
EST.1
Concise description of special systems1 and their coverage



PB2a. Voluntary_informal_self.EN
EST.1
Concise description of any significant, stand-alone programmes for informal workers or self-employed persons with a legal basis, not covered below. Please note if the programme is voluntary or mandatory.

Note: As the profiles focus on mandatory programmes, please do not include further descriptions of stand-alone voluntary programmes in the main profile text below.



PB2a.Branch_note.EN
EST.1
Other branch notes

#Note_for_records: I’ve deleted two disability pension tables; as noted in the last update, they had been gradually phased out and as of now both have been eliminated and replaced with the work ability allowance.~

PB2a.another_branch_YN_id.
EST.1




1 We define a special system as a separate programme that operates in place of the general scheme. Typically, special systems cover groups like military personnel, civil servants, agricultural workers, or self-employed persons, have different rules (e.g. qualifying conditions or benefit calculation), and are administered by a separate organization. Assuming that the programme does not apply to a large share of the private sector (residents, employees, self-employed, etc.), we will only include a short note on its coverage here and no further details elsewhere.

Regulatory framework
Current law(s)
Header.PB3
blank
Law name and number
Year passed
Year implemented
Year(s) of important amendments
Additional information
Link to copy of the law?


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_1992_1
Superannuated Pensions Act
1992
Same as year passed
1993-1998, 2000-2002, 2006, 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2018.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/127052022051?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_1992_2
Old-Age Pensions under Unfavourable Conditions Act
1992
Same as year passed
1993-1998, 2000-2002, 2005, 2010, 2012, and 2016.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/186725?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_1999_1
Social Benefits for Disabled Persons Act
1999
Same as year passed
With annual amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/13114771?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2001_2
State Pension Insurance Act
2001
2002
With periodic amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/RPKS


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2004_2
Funded Pensions Act
2004
Same as year passed
2021.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/128122020002?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2014_1
Work Ability Allowance Act
2014
2016
With annual amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/124122016018?leiaKehtiv


R.EN.PB3C.1
1_EST_L_2016_1
Investment Funds Act
2016
2017
With annual amendments.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/akt/131122016003?leiaKehtiv



Coverage
Header.Pb4new
blank
Programme name
Description of mandatory coverage
Description of
voluntary coverage (including exemptions)
Description of
exclusions
Coverage of specific groups


Header.Pb4new
blank




Is coverage restricted to citizens?1
(please select from list)
Coverage of self-employed persons
(please select from list)
YYY
ZZZ
R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_4
Universal
Permanent residents of Estonia; noncitizens residing temporarily in Estonia; and legal refugees.


No, all legal residents are covered.
n/a (non-contributory)


R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_1
Social assistance
Permanent residents of Estonia; noncitizens residing temporarily in Estonia; and legal refugees.


No, all legal residents are covered.
n/a (non-contributory)


R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_3
State pension (social insurance)
Permanent residents of Estonia; noncitizens residing temporarily in Estonia; and legal refugees.
No possibility of voluntary coverage.
No exclusions.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Mandatory coverage (general scheme).


R.EN.PB4new.1
EST_1_2
Funded pension (individual account)
Persons born after 31 December 1982, who are covered by social insurance, including self-employed persons.
Persons born after 31 December 1941 and before 1 January 1983.
Persons who choose to suspend their accounts or withdraw from the programme entirely are excluded from rejoining the programme for 10 years.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Mandatory coverage (general scheme).
Validated based on Joining the II pillar — Pensionikeskus: https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/ii-sammas/liitumine-ii-sambaga/ | See also International Update, October 2020 (ssa.gov): https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/progdesc/intl_update/2020-10/index.html

1 Please note that this dropdown complements the description under mandatory coverage by providing additional details on citizenship requirements. Individuals in the selected category must still meet the same conditions (e.g., work, earnings, etc.) as those specified under mandatory coverage.

Source of funds
Programmes funded by contributions (or partially funded by contributions)
Header.PB5a
blank

Programme name and persons1 covered
(please select from list)
Contributions
Income base used to calculate contributions
Government contributions
Additional information (including cross-branch financing)
Official sources regarding update


Header.PB5a
blank


Covered person
Employer
Concise description
Minimum
Maximum





R.EN.PB5.cont.1.name_prog
EST_1_3

State pension (social insurance)










R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_3.IP

Employees (+)
None.
16%.
Monthly gross covered payroll.
€654 a month.
No maximum.
Pays contributions for certain categories of insured persons; contributes as an employer.
Contributions also finance work injury benefits.

Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks

R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_3.SE

Self-employed
16%.
n/a
Monthly covered declared earnings.
€654 a month.
No maximum.
Pays contributions for some categories of insured persons.
Contributions also finance work injury benefits.

Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks

R.EN.PB5.cont.1.name_prog
EST_1_2

Funded pension (individual account)










R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_2.IP

Employees (+)
2% plus an administrative fee. Note: Additional voluntary contributions (to a total of 4% or 6%) are possible.
4%.
Monthly gross covered earnings / payroll.
€654 a month.
No maximum.
Contributes as an employer. Note: contributes 4% of average monthly income to a parent raising a child up to age 3 who was born in 2013 or later.


Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks | Added voluntary bit based on https://www.eesti.ee/en/pensions-social-services-and-allowances/pensions/funded-pensions | Added gov’t contribution based on https://www.pensionikeskus.ee/ii-sammas/sissemaksed/vanemapension/

R.EN.PB5.cont.1
EST_1_2.SE

Self-employed
4% plus an administrative fee.
n/a
Monthly covered declared earnings.
€654 a month.

None.


Validated based on Social tax | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/sotsiaalmaks

1 "Employees (+)" refers to all persons who are covered who are not self-employed (employees, pensioners, and other protected groups where applicable, such as students, unemployed persons, etc.)

Programmes with no contributions (government pays the total cost)
Header.PB5b
blank
Programme name
Additional notes
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB5.noncont.1
EST_1_4_ALL
Universal
Local governments pay the total cost of the funeral grant.


R.EN.PB5.noncont.1
EST_1_1_ALL
Social assistance




Disability benefits
Work ability allowance (Töövõimetoetus; Social assistance)
C.B2.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_1_1_5
Benefit name (English)
Work ability allowance



C.B2.
name_b_orig
EST_1_1_5
Local name
Töövõimetoetus



C.B2.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_1_1_5
Name of related programme
Social assistance
#Note_for_records: I’ve reclassified this programme as social assistance given there’s a means (benefit and income) test.~


C.B2.
blank.full
EST_1_1_5
Standard or full benefit



C.B2.
blank.qc
EST_1_1_5
Qualifying conditions



C.B2.
qc
EST_1_1_5
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the standard retirement age and be assessed with no work ability. The Unemployment Insurance Fund assesses the work ability.
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/kellel-oigus-toovoimetoetusele


C.B2.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_1_1_5
• Type of means test
Income test
Details (if applicable): Monthly income in the previous month must not exceed €2,790. Additional benefit test: Must not be receiving a pension or certain other benefits.
Validated based on Töövõimetoetuse saamise tingimused | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-saamise-tingimused | Added income test based on https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance | No work ability allowance is paid for the current month if your previous month’s income exceeds EUR 2310,12 for partial work ability and EUR 2790,00 for no work ability.


C.B2.
multiple.cont_emp_Y_N.cont_emp
EST_1_1_5
• Can a pensioner continue or resume work and receive the benefit?
No
Not relevant. A person cannot receive two benefits at the same time, if person is of retirement age, he/she does not qualify for the work ability allowance
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/kellel-oigus-toovoimetoetusele | Editor note: deleted CORR’s sentence; ‘pensioner’ in this instance refers to the beneficiary of the allowance and not an old-age pensioner. That said, a beneficiary can have income, so it seems like the could work. | #Q2CORR: can an individual who is receiving the work ability allowance (and assessed as having no work ability – so receiving 100% of the daily rate) also have earnings from work? The clause on your website implies that this is indeed possible: ‘No work ability allowance is paid for the current month if your previous month’s income exceeds EUR 2310,12 for partial work ability and EUR 2790,00 for no work ability.’


C.B2.
Credited_cont
EST_1_1_5
• Details on credited or purchasable periods
Contributions are not credited.



C.B2.
multiple.payable_abroad_Y_N.payble_abroad
EST_1_1_5
• Are individuals eligible for the benefit if residing abroad in a country without a reciprocal agreement?
No
Paid only under reciprocal agreement (and for EU and EEA residents).



C.B2.
blank.Ben
EST_1_1_5
Details regarding benefit



C.B2.
ben_calc
EST_1_1_5
Benefit calculation rules
Progressive amount (income-related)



C.B2.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_1_1_5
Benefit amount
€18.60 (the daily work ability allowance) multiplied by the number of calendar days in the month. The monthly allowance is reduced by €1 for every €2 of gross monthly earnings exceeding 90 times the daily work ability allowance.
Minimum: See amount.
Maximum: See amount.
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-suurus | Editor note: CORR did not make any substantive changes, so I’ve rejected. The information for partial belongs below.


C.B2.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_1_1_5
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
Yes, annually
Adjusted annually in April according to changes in the consumer price index and the annual increase in social tax contributions.



C.B2.
Periodicity
EST_1_1_5
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic



C.B2.
benLength_full
EST_1_1_5
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
Up to the standard retirement age.



C.B2.
waitPeriod
EST_1_1_5
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
No waiting period applies.



C.B2.
blank.partial
EST_1_1_5
Reduced benefit for a Partial disability (if not included above)


C.B2.
blank.partial
EST_1_1_5
Name(s)
Local name(s)
Qualifying conditions
Amount


C.B2.
multiple.partial_disability_name.partial_disability_name_orig.qc_partial_disability.partial_disability
EST_1_1_5
Partial work ability allowance

Must be aged 16 to the standard retirement age, be assessed with a partial work ability, not be receiving a pension or certain other benefits, and be working, seeking work, studying, raising a child younger than age 3, caring for a family member with a severe disability, receiving certain support for artistic work, receiving certain types of institutional care, or participating in compulsory military service.
The monthly partial work ability allowance is €10.602 (57% of the daily work ability allowance) multiplied by the number of calendar days in the month. The monthly allowance is reduced by €1 for every €2 of monthly earnings exceeding 90 times the daily work ability allowance. Income test: Monthly income in the previous month must not exceed €2,310.12.
Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-suurus | Income test added based on: | https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/work-ability-allowance/amount-work-ability-allowance


C.B2.
blank.info
EST_1_1_5
Additional information



C.B2.
otherInfo
EST_1_1_5
Please provide if necessary

Validated based on Work ability allowance | UIF (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/teenused/toovoimetoetus/toovoimetoetuse-suurus



Administrative organization
Header.PB6.blank
blank
blank
Organization name
Type of organization
(Please select from list)
Related programmes (Y/N)
Role in relation to programme (Y/N)
Additional information
Website


R.EN.PB6.1. name_prog
UPI.4
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2


Universal
Social assistance
State pension (social insurance)
Funded pension (individual account)
General supervision
Regulatory functions1
Programme administration
Payment/delivery of benefits2
Collection of contributions
Other notes on role




R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_7
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Ministry of Social Affairs
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
Y
N
Y
Y
N
N
N


https://www.sm.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_9
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Social Insurance Board
Public (independent agency)
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
Is responsible for overall planning and coordination.

https://www.sotsiaalkindlustusamet.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_2
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund
Public (independent agency)
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
Y
N
Administers the work ability allowance.
Under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Affairs.
https://www.tootukassa.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_10
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Tax and Customs Office
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
N
Y


https://www.emta.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_5
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Local governments
Public (part of government)
Y
N
N
N
N
N
N
Y
N
Pay the funeral grant.




R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_6
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Ministry of Finance
Public (part of government)
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Supervises the Financial Supervisory Authority and the Registrar of the Estonian Central Register of Securities.

https://www.fi.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_3
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Financial Supervisory Authority
Public (independent agency)
N
N
N
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Supervises financial services providers, including pension management companies and life insurance companies.

https://www.fi.ee/


R.EN.PB6.1
EST_AO_8
UPI.4.EST_1_4.EST_1_1.EST_1_3.EST_1_2
Estonian Central Register of Securities
Multiple types of organizations
N
N
N
Y
N
N
N
N
N
Sets up a mandatory individual pension account for each insured person.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/508112023001/consolide
Validated based on Securities Register Maintenance Act–Riigi Teataja: https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/508112023001/consolide

1 The institution is in charge of developing and enforcing financial, administrative, or operative regulations for the programme. This is often the same organization that oversees general supervision, but can also be an independent body such as superintendents, health regulators, financial regulators, and pensions regulators.
2 Usually this is the same as the administrating organization, but if a separate organization or set of organizations pays benefits, please ensure it is listed in the table.

Unemployment benefits
Branch overview
If there are nation-wide programmes with a legal basis that are missing from the table and are actively implemented, please include them here and throughout the profile (including social assistance programmes). For special systems for certain groups (e.g. military personnel, civil servants, etc.), scattered programmes at the municipal or regional level, or programmes with wide coverage but no legal basis, please do not add them to the profile, but rather simply add a short description under additional information.
Header.PB1
blank
Type of programme
(please select from list)
Programme name in English
Local name and acronym
(if different than English)
Type of contributions1?
(please select from list)
Are contributions necessary for benefit entitlement?
(please select from list)
Additional information
Programme website or links to information brochures


R.EN.PB1.4
EST_4_2
Social insurance
Unemployment insurance
Töötuskindlustushüvitis
Mandatory
Yes




R.EN.PB1.4
EST_4_1
Social assistance
Unemployment allowance
Töötutoetus
None
No




Foootnote 1 Mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are mandatory for at least one group of individuals in the private sector (e.g. all employees, all residents, all non-agricultural workers, etc.). These systems may have exclusions or exemptions for certain groups or offer voluntary coverage for those not mandatorily covered (these can be detailed in the coverage section).
Quasi-mandatory: Enrolment and contributions to the programme are initially voluntary for all workers, but once enrolled, members are no longer able to opt out.

Additional branch notes
PB2a.Special.EN
EST.4
Concise description of special systems1 and their coverage



PB2a. Voluntary_informal_self.EN
EST.4
Concise description of any significant, stand-alone programmes for informal workers or self-employed persons with a legal basis, not covered below. Please note if the programme is voluntary or mandatory.

Note: As the profiles focus on mandatory programmes, please do not include further descriptions of stand-alone voluntary programmes in the main profile text below.



PB2a.Branch_note.EN
EST.4
Other branch notes



PB2a.another_branch_YN_id.
EST.4




1 We define a special system as a separate programme that operates in place of the general scheme. Typically, special systems cover groups like military personnel, civil servants, agricultural workers, or self-employed persons, have different rules (e.g. qualifying conditions or benefit calculation), and are administered by a separate organization. Assuming that the programme does not apply to a large share of the private sector (residents, employees, self-employed, etc.), we will only include a short note on its coverage here and no further details elsewhere.

Regulatory framework
Current law(s)
Header.PB3
blank
Law name and number
Year passed
Year implemented
Year(s) of important amendments
Additional information
Link to copy of the law?


R.EN.PB3C.4
4_EST_L_2001_3
Unemployment Insurance Act
2001
Same as year passed
Last amended in 2020.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/512082020014/consolide


R.EN.PB3C.4
4_EST_L_2005_1
Labour Market Services and Benefits Act
2005
Same as year passed
Last amended in 2020.

https://www.riigiteataja.ee/en/eli/512082020015/consolide


R.EN.PB3F.4
4_EST_LF_1991_1
#Q2CORR: Please provide the name and number of the law.~
1991
Same as year passed






Coverage
Header.Pb4new
blank
Programme name
Description of mandatory coverage
Description of
voluntary coverage (including exemptions)
Description of
exclusions
Coverage of specific groups


Header.Pb4new
blank




Is coverage restricted to citizens?1
(please select from list)
Coverage of self-employed persons
(please select from list)
YYY
ZZZ
R.EN.PB4new.4
EST_4_2
Unemployment insurance
Permanent residents of Estonia, noncitizens residing in Estonia with a temporary residence permit, and legal refugees.
No possibility of voluntary coverage.
Self-employed persons, and persons who have achieved the standard retirement age.
No, all legal residents are covered.
Excluded.


R.EN.PB4new.4
EST_4_1
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)
Permanent residents of Estonia, noncitizens residing in Estonia with a temporary residence permit, and legal refugees.


No, all legal residents are covered.
n/a (non-contributory)


1 Please note that this dropdown complements the description under mandatory coverage by providing additional details on citizenship requirements. Individuals in the selected category must still meet the same conditions (e.g., work, earnings, etc.) as those specified under mandatory coverage.

Source of funds
Programmes funded by contributions (or partially funded by contributions)
Header.PB5a
blank

Programme name and persons1 covered
(please select from list)
Contributions
Income base used to calculate contributions
Government contributions
Additional information (including cross-branch financing)
Official sources regarding update


Header.PB5a
blank


Covered person
Employer
Concise description
Minimum
Maximum





R.EN.PB5.cont.4.name_prog
EST_4_2

Unemployment insurance










R.EN.PB5.cont.4
EST_4_2.IP

Employees (+)
1.6%.
0.8%.
Monthly gross earnings / payroll.


None; contributes as an employer.


Validated based on Tax rates | Tax and Customs Board (emta.ee): https://www.emta.ee/ariklient/maksud-ja-tasumine/tulumaks-ja-sotsiaalmaks/maksumaarad

1 "Employees (+)" refers to all persons who are covered who are not self-employed (employees, pensioners, and other protected groups where applicable, such as students, unemployed persons, etc.)

Programmes with no contributions (government pays the total cost)
Header.PB5b
blank
Programme name
Additional notes
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB5.noncont.4
EST_4_1_ALL
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)




Unemployment benefits
Unemployment benefit (Töötuskindlustushüvitis; Unemployment insurance) in effect until 31.12.2025
C.B11.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_4_2_1
Benefit name (English)
Unemployment benefit

ZZZ
C.B11.
name_b_orig
EST_4_2_1
Local name
Töötuskindlustushüvitis


C.B11.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_4_2_1
Name of related programme
Unemployment insurance


C.B11.
blank.qc
EST_4_2_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B11.
qc
EST_4_2_1
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the standard retirement age (except for early pensioners), capable of gainful activity, registered as unemployed with an employment office of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, and involuntarily unemployed with at least 12 months of insured work in the 36 months before registering as unemployed.


C.B11.
blank.Ben
EST_4_2_1
Details regarding benefit


C.B11.
ben_calc
EST_4_2_1
Benefit calculation rules
Wage replacement


C.B11.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_4_2_1
Benefit amount
60% of reference earnings is paid for the first 100 calendar days; thereafter, 40% of reference earnings.
Minimum: €10.90 a day.
Maximum: 60 or 40% of 3 times the average wage per calendar day.
Validated July 2023 amount based on https://www.tootukassa.ee/et/uudised/alanud-aastal-tousevad-mitmed-eesti-tootukassa-toetused-ja-huvitised | Validated based on Unemployment insurance benefit | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-insurance-benefit | Editor note: changed the percentage for the first 100 days based on: | https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-insurance-benefit

C.B11.
multiple.RefWage.RefWageMin.RefWageMax
EST_4_2_1
• Definition of reference earnings used in benefit calculation
Definition: The insured’s average earnings in the 9 months prior to the 3 months immediately before unemployment began, divided by 30.
Minimum: The legal daily minimum wage.
Maximum: Three times the national average wage (see Annex).
Editor note: I could not validate what the legal daily minimum wage is, and we also don’t include it under reference values above. So I’ve left as is.

C.B11.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_4_2_1
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
No, ad hoc
An unemployment allowance granted in 2025 will continue to be paid in 2026. 


C.B11.
Periodicity
EST_4_2_1
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic


C.B11.
benLength_full
EST_4_2_1
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
180 calendar days with up to 60 months of coverage; 210 calendar days with 60 to 120 months of coverage; or 300 calendar days with at least 120 months of coverage. Under certain labour market conditions, may be extended if the insured had at least 60 months of coverage.
Validated based on Payment period of the unemployment insurance benefit | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-insurance-benefit/payment-period-unemployment-insurance-benefit

C.B11.
waitPeriod
EST_4_2_1
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
A waiting period of 7 calendar days.


C.B11.
blank.info
EST_4_2_1
Additional information


C.B11.
otherInfo
EST_4_2_1
Please provide if necessary





Unemployment allowance (Töötutoetus; Unemployment allowance (social assistance) – was in effect until 31.12.2025
C.B11.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_4_1_1
Benefit name (English)
Unemployment allowance

ZZZ
C.B11.
name_b_orig
EST_4_1_1
Local name
Töötutoetus


C.B11.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_4_1_1
Name of related programme
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)


C.B11.
blank.qc
EST_4_1_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B11.
qc
EST_4_1_1
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the normal retirement age (except for early pensioners), capable of gainful activity, registered as unemployed with an employment office of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund, have at least 180 calendar days of employment in the 12 months before registering as unemployed. Employment periods include full-time education, military service, raising a child younger than age 7, treatment in a hospital, caring for a sick person, or periods of disability or detention.


C.B11.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_4_1_1
• Type of means test
Income test
Details (if applicable): Daily personal income must be less than the value of the daily unemployment allowance.


C.B11.
blank.Ben
EST_4_1_1
Details regarding benefit


C.B11.
ben_calc
EST_4_1_1
Benefit calculation rules
Flat-rate amount


C.B11.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_4_1_1
Benefit amount
€10.55 a day.
Minimum: See amount.
Maximum: See amount.
Validated based on Unemployment allowance | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-allowance

C.B11.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_4_1_1
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
No, ad hoc
N/A An unemployment allowance granted in 2025 will continue to be paid in 2026. 
#Q2CORR: Kindly specify how often and based on which mechanism or logic the benefit is adjusted.~

C.B11.
Periodicity
EST_4_1_1
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic


C.B11.
benLength_full
EST_4_1_1
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
Up to 270 calendar days; 210 calendar days for unemployed persons who are dismissed by their employer for a breach of duties, loss of confidence, or indecent act.


C.B11.
extension
EST_4_1_1
• Description of extensions
May be extended up to the normal retirement age (except for early pensioners) if there are less than 180 calendar days until the beneficiary reaches the normal retirement age (except for early pensioners).


C.B11.
waitPeriod
EST_4_1_1
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
A waiting period of 7 calendar days (60 calendar days from the date of registration as unemployed for recently graduated students).


C.B11.
blank.info
EST_4_1_1
Additional information


C.B11.
otherInfo
EST_4_1_1
Please provide if necessary



Basic unemployment insurance benefit (baasmääras töötuskindlustushüvitis)
C.B11.
name_b.note_high_level
EST_4_1_1
Benefit name (English)
Unemployment allowance

ZZZ
C.B11.
name_b_orig
EST_4_1_1
Local name
baasmääras töötuskindlustushüvitis


C.B11.
name_prog.CRBranch_text
EST_4_1_1
Name of related programme
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)


C.B11.
blank.qc
EST_4_1_1
Qualifying conditions


C.B11.
qc
EST_4_1_1
Main qualifying conditions
Must be aged 16 to the normal retirement age, capable of gainful activity, registered as unemployed with an employment office of the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund


C.B11.
multiple.test.test_details
EST_4_1_1
• Type of means test
Income test
Details (if applicable): Daily personal income must be less than the value of the daily unemployment allowance.


C.B11.
blank.Ben
EST_4_1_1
Details regarding benefit


C.B11.
ben_calc
EST_4_1_1
Benefit calculation rules
Flat-rate amount


C.B11.
multiple.amount.MinBen.MaxBen
EST_4_1_1
Benefit amount
€14.30 a day.
Minimum: See amount.
Maximum: See amount.
Validated based on Unemployment allowance | Töötukassa (tootukassa.ee): https://www.tootukassa.ee/en/services/unemployment-allowance

C.B11.
multiple.BenAdjust_Y_N.Benefit_Adjustment
EST_4_1_1
• Is there a legal obligation to review (and if necessary adjust) the benefit within a defined period (e.g. every year) for inflation, cost of living, etc.?
No, ad hoc

#Q2CORR: Kindly specify how often and based on which mechanism or logic the benefit is adjusted.~

C.B11.
Periodicity
EST_4_1_1
Periodicity of benefit payment
Periodic


C.B11.
benLength_full
EST_4_1_1
• Benefit duration (only if periodic)
Up to 270 calendar days; 210 calendar days


C.B11.
extension
EST_4_1_1
• Description of extensions
May be extended up to the normal retirement age if there are less than 180 calendar days until the beneficiary reaches the normal retirement age.


C.B11.
waitPeriod
EST_4_1_1
• Description of waiting period (and continued payment by employer, if applicable)
Unemployment benefit is generally paid within five working days after the last counseling and upon termination of registration as unemployed within five working days after the decision to terminate the payment of unemployment benefit is confirmed.


C.B11.
blank.info
EST_4_1_1
Additional information


C.B11.
otherInfo
EST_4_1_1
Please provide if necessary





Administrative organization
Header.PB6.blank
blank
blank
Organization name
Type of organization
(Please select from list)
Related programmes (Y/N)
Role in relation to programme (Y/N)
Additional information
Website
Yyy
zzz
R.EN.PB6.4.name_prog
UPI.2
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1


Unemployment insurance
Unemployment allowance (social assistance)
General supervision
Regulatory functions1
Programme administration
Payment/delivery of benefits2
Collection of contributions
Other notes on role




R.EN.PB6.4
EST_AO_2
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1
Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund
Public (independent agency)
Y
Y
N
N
N
Y
N
Also registers the unemployed.
Under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Affairs.
https://www.tootukassa.ee/


R.EN.PB6.4
EST_AO_7
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1
Ministry of Social Affairs
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
N
Supervises the Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund.

https://www.sm.ee/


R.EN.PB6.4
EST_AO_10
UPI.2.EST_4_2.EST_4_1
Tax and Customs Office
Public (part of government)
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
Y


https://www.emta.ee/


1 The institution is in charge of developing and enforcing financial, administrative, or operative regulations for the programme. This is often the same organization that oversees general supervision, but can also be an independent body such as superintendents, health regulators, financial regulators, and pensions regulators.
2 Usually this is the same as the administrating organization, but if a separate organization or set of organizations pays benefits, please ensure it is listed in the table.