Sofia unemployment benefits top national average at 1145 leva

Sofia residents receiving unemployment compensation collect amounts that surpass next year’s planned minimum salary, based on recent figures from the National Social Security Institute. The capital records the nation’s highest average jobless payment at 1,145 leva, while Kardzhali registers the lowest at 669 leva.

Nationwide, unemployment compensation averages 827 leva. Men without work in Sofia receive the largest payments across Bulgaria, averaging 1,260 leva. That figure exceeds the 1,213-leva minimum salary expected to take effect next year. Women in the capital collect an average of 1,048 leva, followed by jobless men in Varna at slightly above 1,007 leva. No other region reaches the 1,000-leva threshold. Besides Kardzhali, Vidin, and Haskovo report the smallest payments at roughly 676 leva.

Approximately 58,000 registered jobless individuals qualify for these benefits nationwide, representing 40 percent of the 148,000 people enrolled at employment offices. This year’s daily benefit ranges from a minimum of 18 leva to a maximum of 107.14 leva. Payment duration spans four to 12 months, depending on each recipient’s insurance history. Eligibility requires contributing to the unemployment fund for at least 12 months during the 18 months preceding job loss.