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 Selfoss
  • Selfoss

    Velferðarþjónusta Árborgar — Fullorðinsteymi

    Austurvegur 2, Ráðhús Árborgar, 800 Selfoss

    Call the adult welfare team for advice or an appointment, and stay in regular contact with your adviser afterwards.

    Prepare tax and assessment records, pay or benefit statements for the previous two months, household income and assets, and a lease where applicable. Equivalent partner records and foreign tax or asset evidence may be required. Jobseekers show registration and job applications; incapacity requires medical evidence. Foreign applicants must show the applicable domicile-history and residence documents. The rules ask for documents before the 20th to avoid payment delays, while processing is expected before the 25th. You may apply during the month, but confirm the current payment timetable with your adviser. Keep the decision: a written Welfare Committee review request is due within four weeks of notification.

Related services

Other everyday services in Iceland

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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