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 Ísafjörður
  • Ísafjörður

    Velferðarsvið Ísafjarðarbæjar

    Hafnarstræti 1, 2. hæð, Stjórnsýsluhúsið, 400 Ísafjörður

    Book a consultation online or by phone, and remember that booking does not submit your application.

    Prepare income for the application month and preceding month, the latest confirmed tax return, bank balances, assets and debts for yourself and your spouse or cohabiting partner where applicable. Include payslips, benefit and unemployment records, and relevant foreign income. If you or your partner lived abroad this year or last tax year, the rules request a tax return and asset declaration from the country of nationality. Supply residence evidence and, for incapacity, a medical certificate. Missing financial documents stop processing; requested documents not received within two weeks of application can lead to dismissal. A representative needs written authority. Tell the adviser promptly about urgent basic needs rather than waiting silently for documents.

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