Kela benefit payments may be delayed by the postal strike

The two-week strike announced by Posti, the Finnish postal company, may end up affecting social security beneficiaries.

The strike is planned to begin at 6:00 on Monday, 11 November and to end on Sunday 24 at midnight. It may also delay the delivery of the Social Security Institution's decision letters to clients.

According to a press release by Kela, "the potential strike may cause delays in the delivery of benefit applications and additional documents submitted by clients. As a result, payments of social benefits, especially unemployment benefits and social assistance, may be delayed".

In order to avoid such disruptions, Kela advised its clients to use its online services to complete and transmit their applications and supporting documentation. Through the e-services, clients can also look up the status of their applications.

Clients who can't use online services

To log in to the e-services, clients can use their online banking credentials or mobile ID. Kela’s customer service points provide assistance in the use of the e-services.

Clients who cannot use the e-services are encouraged to call Kela’s customer service by phone to submit an application or unemployment status report verbally. Applications can also be handed in at Kela’s customer service points.