How to Get Single Parent Status and What Benefits It Provides
In modern Israel, more and more parents are raising children on their own. The status of “single parent” provides access to a range of state benefits and discounts: from tax reductions to subsidies for rent and kindergarten fees. However, the application process requires a clear understanding of the bureaucratic procedures. In this article, we will detail who is eligible for this status, what documents are needed, and what payments you can expect. And if you want to quickly find a used stroller, children’s clothing, or nanny services, post an ad on our free website 4israel.co.il. Thanks to automatic translation, your ad will be available in Russian, Hebrew, English, and Arabic – helping you find a buyer or service provider faster.
Who Can Get Single Parent Status
According to Israeli law, the status of “single parent” (הורה עצמאי) is granted to a man or woman who is raising a child (up to age 18) without a spouse. This primarily applies to divorced, widowed, or never-married parents. The status can also be obtained by a parent whose spouse is in prison (for at least 90 days), has been declared legally incapacitated, or lives abroad. An important condition: the parent must not be in a new registered marriage or live together with another partner. If you meet these criteria, contact the local branch of Bituach Leumi (the National Insurance Institute).
Main Benefits and Cash Payments
Once you obtain official status, several types of financial support become available. First, an allowance supplement to the income support benefit (הבטחת הכנסה) – approximately 250–500 shekels per month plus additional amounts for each child. Second, a discount on municipal tax (arnona) can reach up to 50% depending on the city. Single parents are also exempt from fees for preschool education for children ages 3 and up until elementary school, and receive a significant state subsidy for daycare (mishpachton). Notably, the Bituach Leumi childbirth grant (for single mothers) is 25% higher than the standard amount. All these funds can be allocated to essential needs, and you can save on buying children’s furniture or clothing through ads in the Classifieds section – where you’ll find thousands of offers from other parents.
Tax Benefits and Housing Discounts
A single parent is entitled to an increased tax credit (נקודת זיכוי). In 2024–2025, this amounts to one additional tax credit point per year, saving about 2,500–3,000 shekels in income tax. To apply this benefit, you must submit the appropriate form to the tax authority (mas achnasa) along with a certificate of your status. Additionally, housing benefits include a rental subsidy from the Ministry of Construction (diyur mitgresh) for low-income single parents. The support ranges from 1,200 to 1,800 shekels per month. If you’re looking for a rental apartment or room in a community, check out the Real Estate section – it has many options from private landlords.
Additional Opportunities: Education, Work, and Leisure
Beyond financial benefits, the status provides priority enrollment for children in state kindergartens and after-school programs. Single parents can apply for scholarships for university or college studies (e.g., from the Michlev Foundation). Discounted summer camps and extracurricular activities with reduced fees are also available. Importantly, if you need to return to work, you can contact the employment center (taasuka) for retraining courses with a stipend. To quickly find suitable job openings, use the Jobs section. For tutors, electricians, or handymen, check out the Services category.
Conclusion
Single parent status is not just a formality, but a real tool for saving money and receiving state support. It can significantly reduce expenses on housing, daycare, taxes, and transportation, while also providing additional cash payments. To benefit from these advantages, it is important to gather the necessary documents in time and contact Bituach Leumi. Remember, life with children involves constant purchases and services – from a used stroller to home repairs. Our free website 4israel.co.il is designed to help you easily and quickly buy, sell, and order everything you need. The main advantage: every ad you post is automatically translated into four languages – Russian, Hebrew, Arabic, and English. This means your offer will be seen and understood by all residents of Israel, regardless of their native language. Publish your ads and receive responses instantly!