It's time for your yearly reminder to check if you might be able to claim this benefit! Maybe you've heard about this already, and maybe this is new information for you. There is a reverse-tax benefit in Israel for low-income families. It's called the "Maanak Avodah" or "Working Grant". The point of this grant is to put more money in your pocket if you earn less than a certain amount of money!
Please don't miss out on this if you qualify - apply as soon as possible in order to avoid disappointment later. It won't take much of your time to apply, and you can do it now, BEFORE YOU FORGET! Right now, you can apply for the 2024 grant, and some people may still be able to apply for the 2023 grant.
Updated information for the 2024 grant:
Who can apply for this grant?
You can apply for this grant if:
1. You were employed or self-employed
2. You were 21 years of age or older, and have minor children*, or 55 years of age or above, even if you have no minor children
3. You did not own more than 50% of a property or rights to a property (anywhere in the world) in the 2022 tax year, other than your primary residence
4. If you have one or two children, or are age 55+ without children, and your average monthly income falls between 2,390 and 7,220 you may be eligible for this grant. If you are a single parent of 1-2 children (with custody of your minor children), your average monthly income must fall between 1,470 and 10,930 NIS to qualifyץ
5. If you have 3 or more children, and your average monthly income falls between 2,390 NIS and 7,910 NIS, you may be eligible for this grant. If you are a single parent of 3 or more children (with custody), you may qualify if your income is between 1,470 and 13,340 NIS per month.
*children who are counted are those who are under the age of 19 as of 31/12/2023
How do you apply?
Online, using the Israeli tax website - this form lets you apply for this year and last year
At the post office, where you'll need to answer a few questions. BE SURE to bring your teudat zehut (ID card) and either your checkbook or an "ishur" from your bank that you have an account with them. Please keep any paperwork you receive at the post office and/or in the mail. (This option only allows you to apply for 2024, whereas online you may still be able to apply for the previous year).
If you have questions after you've applied, or to check the status of your application, you can check the status of your request online in your "eizor ishi", or call *4954 or or 02-565-6400 to speak with the Tax Authority.
How much can you expect to receive?
The amount you receive will vary depending on your circumstances, and if you qualify, could be up to 10,080 NIS.
Your spouse's income may affect your eligibility, as may various other factors.
I hope this helps some of you out there! It's worth it to check if you are eligible.
Please share this information with your friends and family who may benefit from it!