Where to ask for financial assistance in Iceland

The municipality where you are registered is your starting point

Financial assistance is handled by each municipality’s social services, so apply to the one where you have your legal address. Offices differ on whether you phone first, apply through a town portal or visit a service centre, so confirm opening times and how to arrange a meeting before you travel.

1 office in Garðabær
  • Garðabær

    Þjónustuver Garðabæjar

    Garðatorg 7, 210 Garðabær

    Apply online for help when living costs become temporarily too much, and phone to book advice at the service centre.

    Provide tax returns and withholding statements for you and your partner, plus income and benefit records for the last two months. If able to work, provide confirmation of job-search registration or exhausted unemployment-benefit entitlement. If unable to work, provide a medical certificate. Use the official application portal and supply any missing evidence requested.

Related services

Other everyday services in Iceland

Other countries

The same task in other countries

Moving on, or comparing before you decide? See how this works elsewhere.

Where to next

Social assistance from your municipality

Find out who can apply, which municipality handles your case and what to check before you contact social services.

Social assistance in Iceland