Can I get social assistance in Sweden?
Yes — social assistance (ekonomiskt bistånd) is society's last-resort safety net when you cannot manage on your own. It is paid by the municipality under the Social Services Act and based on a national norm. For 2026 the norm is 5,220 kr a month for a single adult and 8,510 kr for a cohabiting couple, plus reasonable costs for housing, electricity and insurance. You must first use your own assets and savings, and if you can work you must be registered with the Public Employment Service and actively seek work. In Stockholm you apply via your district administration.
📋 The rules
- A last resort when you cannot support yourself
- Paid by the municipality under the national norm
- 2026 norm: 5,220 kr single, 8,510 kr couple
- You must first use your own assets and savings
- If you can work you must seek work via the Employment Service
🔓 Exceptions
- Acute aid (food, urgent needs) can be given even if the conditions are unmet
- Special costs (care, dental, glasses) can be granted above the norm
- A new Social Services Act applies since 1 July 2025, but the right to aid is unchanged
⚠️ Penalties & fines
False information or unreported income leads to repayment and can be benefit fraud with fines or prison. Refusing offered work or activity can reduce or stop the support.
📎 Official sources
- National Board of Health · National norm →
- Government · National norm 2026 →
- Social Services Act · Riksdagen →
❓ Frequently asked
Who can get social assistance?
Someone who cannot support themselves and has used their own assets first. The municipality assesses your application.
How much is the 2026 norm?
5,220 kr a month for a single adult and 8,510 kr for a cohabiting couple, plus housing costs.
Must I seek work to get support?
Yes, if you can work you must be registered with the Public Employment Service and actively seek work.
Must I use my savings first?
Yes. Social assistance is a last resort, so your own assets and savings must be used first.
Where do I apply in Stockholm?
Via your district administration or the city's e-service. A first decision often takes up to three weeks.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “can I get social assistance sweden”
- “national norm 2026 amount”
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- “social assistance savings sweden”
- “apply social assistance stockholm”