Social assistance in Bulgaria (2026): monthly aid, heating aid and one-off help
Social assistance is not the same as child benefits: it is for people and families on very low incomes, paid by the Social Assistance Agency through local directorates (DSP).
In short: three types — monthly, targeted (best known: heating aid, €64.39 a month, €321.95 for the 2026/2027 season) and one-off. Eligible: Bulgarian citizens and foreigners with long-term or permanent residence, refugee, asylum or humanitarian status.
Monthly aid
A top-up to a guaranteed minimum, calculated from the poverty line (€390.63 per person per month in 2026) with coefficients for household make-up. Conditions include very low income, no significant property or savings, and working-age members registered with the labour office. Granted for up to 12 months.
Heating aid 2026/2027
€64.39 a month for 5 months (1 November 2026 – 31 March 2027), €321.95 in total, paid in two instalments. Conditions: average income over the previous 6 months below an individual threshold, only one owned home, no company stake, savings per person not above the poverty line, unemployed applicants registered with the labour office for at least 3 months.
One-off help
For emergencies such as fire, flood, serious illness or a death in the family, decided by the DSP after an assessment.
How to apply
Fill in the application-declaration and submit it to the Social Assistance Directorate at your address — in person, by post or electronically — with proof of income, property and household; foreigners add their long-term or permanent residence card.
FAQ
How much is heating aid in Bulgaria for 2026/2027?
€64.39 a month for five months, €321.95 in total, from 1 November 2026 to 31 March 2027.
Can foreigners get social assistance in Bulgaria?
Yes, with a long-term or permanent residence permit, or refugee, asylum or humanitarian status. Usually not on an ordinary one-year permit.
📚 Sources: 3
For information only; not legal advice.
