Pension insurance contributions will not increase in 2026, while pensions themselves will be updated from 1 July under the Swiss indexation formula, resulting in an expected rise of 7–8%. These measures are part of the revised 2026 State Social Security (SSS) budget, approved at first reading by the parliamentary budget committee.
Minimum Wage Set at €620.20
From 1 January 2026, the national minimum wage will be €620.20. The minimum insurance threshold for self-employed persons will match this amount, also rising to €620.20.
The maximum insurance income will be €2300, a slight decrease compared to the earlier draft budget, National Social Security Institute (NSSI) governor Vesela Karaivanova-Nacheva explained during the committee hearing.
Unemployment and Maternity Benefits Retained
The minimum and maximum daily unemployment benefits remain unchanged – €9.21 and €54.78, respectively.
The payment period for pregnancy and childbirth benefits stays at 410 days.
However, the benefit for raising a child up to the age of two will increase from €398.81 (780 BGN) to €460.17 (900 BGN) as of 1 January 2026.
Mothers returning to work earlier will now keep 75% of the benefit, up from 50%, a measure highlighted by Labour and Social Policy Minister Borislav Gutsanov as a key social commitment fulfilled.
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