How is the heating allowance calculated for 2026?
The heating allowance for 2026 is calculated by applying a 30% increase to last year's reference amounts. This adjustment affects the calculation basis for each type of heating fuel. For example, the basis for electricity has increased from €380 to €494, while for natural gas, it has risen from €325 to €422.50. The final allowance amount depends on the heating source, the number of children in the household, and the climate coefficient of the area.
What are the new calculation bases for different fuel types?
The calculation bases for different fuel types have been updated as follows:
- Electricity: from €380 to €494
- Pellets: from €360 to €468
- District heating and firewood: from €350 to €455
- Natural gas: from €325 to €422.50
- Heating oil, kerosene, and LPG: from €300 to €390
- Minimum allowance: from €100 to €130
These amounts are multiplied by the regional coefficient and increased by 20% for each dependent child. To receive the full allowance, eligible expenses must be at least double the allowance amount.
How does the allowance vary by region?
The allowance varies significantly by region due to different climate coefficients. For instance, a household in Heraklion using heating oil will see their allowance increase from €100 to €130, while in Florina, it rises from €443 to €576. In Metsovo, the allowance jumps from €549 to €714. These variations highlight the importance of regional coefficients in determining the allowance.
What impact does the increase have on families?
The 30% increase in the heating allowance significantly impacts families. For example, a family with one child in Athens will receive approximately €202 for heating oil, up from €155, and €255 for electricity, up from €196. In Thessaloniki, a similar family will receive about €333 for heating oil and €421 for electricity. The increase helps families manage heating costs more effectively.
What are the eligibility criteria for the heating allowance?
The eligibility for the heating allowance is based on income and property criteria. Last year's criteria included a family income of up to €16,000 for singles and €24,000 for married couples, with an additional €5,000 for each dependent child. The total property value should not exceed €200,000 for singles and €260,000 for married couples or single-parent families, with an increase of €40,000 for each dependent child. Business income should not exceed €80,000.
How can families apply for the heating allowance?
Applications for the heating allowance are submitted electronically through the myΘέρμανση platform of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). Applicants must provide details such as their primary residence, electricity supply number, type of heating, and square meters of the property. Last year, advance payments were made before Christmas, with final settlements completed by the end of May and additional payments by the end of July for natural gas, district heating, and electricity.
Frequently asked questions
What is the heating allowance increase for 2026?
The heating allowance for 2026 has increased by 30% compared to the previous year.
How is the allowance calculated?
The allowance is based on the type of heating fuel, number of children, and regional climate coefficients, with a 30% increase applied to last year's amounts.
Who is eligible for the heating allowance?
Eligibility is determined by income and property criteria, including family income limits and property value caps.
How do regional coefficients affect the allowance?
Regional coefficients adjust the allowance based on the climate of each area, leading to variations in the final amount received.
When can applicants expect to receive the allowance?
Advance payments are typically made before Christmas, with final settlements by the end of May and additional payments by the end of July.
Key takeaways
- The heating allowance for 2026 has increased by 30%.
- Calculation bases vary by fuel type, with electricity rising to €494.
- Eligibility is based on income and property criteria.
- Regional coefficients significantly impact the allowance amount.
- Applications are submitted electronically through the myΘέρμανση platform.
