Even without a job — why in Israel you still have to pay 266 shekels

The article explains that unemployed individuals and students in Israel are required to pay minimum insurance contributions to Bituah Leumi — 266 shekels per month in 2026. It examines the consequences of non-payment: fines, indexation, and reduction of social benefits for debts exceeding 12 months. Examples of calculations for two 24-year-old men are provided.

The article clarifies the obligation to pay minimum insurance contributions to Bituah Leumi for unemployed individuals and students in Israel. In 2026, the minimum payment is 266 shekels per month, of which 143 shekels go to national insurance and 123 to health insurance. Students pay a reduced rate of 171 shekels. An example is given of two 24-year-old neighbors: one studies and pays 171 shekels, the second dropped out and must pay 266 shekels. The consequences of late payment are described: a daily fine of 0.07%, then a weekly fine of 0.2%, and indexation. For debts over 12 months, benefits are reduced by a quarter; after 18 months, by half; after 36 months, they are not paid. The debt for 14 months is calculated: 4,028 shekels for a non-working non-student and 2,589 for a student. Rules for spouses, demobilized soldiers, passive income recipients, and residents abroad are also mentioned.