Marginal increase new disability benefits

The number of new cases under the Work and Income according to Labour Capacity Act (WIA) is growing gradually. In the first half of last year, 12 thousand new disability benefits were granted, as against 9 and 11 thousand respectively in the same period in 2006 and 2007. Mid-2008, the number of WIA benefits totalled 49 thousand: 11 thousand were paid to completely disabled and nearly 38 thousand to partially disabled. 

WIA benefits, inflow and outflow

Mainly older people completely and permanently disabled

More than 60 percent of WIA benefits are paid to disabled over-45s. People in this age category are more often registered as completely and permanently incapable of work due to disability than young people. Approximately half of all completely and permanently disabled (IVA) are 55 years or older. In the category partially or temporarily disabled persons, 45 to 54-year-olds are the largest group.

WIA benefits to completely or permanently disabled by age and gender, mid-2008

As many male as female WIA recipients

With more than 24 thousand, as many men as women receive WIA benefits. In the category completely and permanently disabled, 58 percent are men. Among partially disabled, women constitute the majority (52 percent). In the oldest age group (55-64 years), men easily outnumber women.

WIA benefits to partially or permanently disabled by age and gender, mid-2008