December 12, 2008


The parliament adopted the above provision with the Law on the 2009 Budget of the State (Public) Social Security Fund, on 12 December 2008. The provision extends from 9 to 12 months the benefits amounting at 90 % of the contributory income, paid before birth. In order to receive the benefits though, women should have contributed to the state social security fund in the last 12 months prior to birth.

Those mothers, who meanwhile, by the time when the law goes into effect, lack the required 12 months contributions will also be able to get the benefits until the first birthday of the child. The law also provides mothers with cash benefits fixed at the national minimum wage, which next year will amount to BGN 240 for the second year until the child attains 2 years of age.

As of January 1, 2009 the minimum pension for length of service and minimum age for retirement attained, becomes BGN 124,84.