The Finnish social security institution, Kela, reported a substantial rise in the distribution of basic social assistance, with the number of beneficiaries increasing to 6.4% of the Finnish population in 2025. The growth in recipients was noted at 2.9% over the previous year, resulting in Kela providing support to approximately 365,000 individuals, highlighting ongoing economic challenges facing many Finns.

In monetary terms, Kela disbursed just over one billion euros in basic social assistance, a figure that reflects a 21.4% increase compared to 2024. For individual beneficiaries, the average monthly support amounted to 574 euros, indicating that many individuals rely significantly on this aid for their basic needs. The report also forecasts a decrease in assistance payments starting in two weeks, indicating possible policy changes that may affect future assistance levels.

In a comparative analysis at the municipal level, the city of Vantaa emerged as having the highest percentage of basic social assistance recipients, with 11.9% of its population receiving aid. Other municipalities with notable numbers of recipients included Kerava, Outokumpu, Lahti, and Helsinki. The report highlights that nearly a third of the recipients were without income, particularly emphasizing regions such as South Karelia, where the rate of income-less households receiving assistance is highest, raising concerns about long-term sustainability and economic stability in these areas.