Government; social benefits

This table contains information on social benefits provided by general government. The terms and definitions used for the totals are in accordance with the framework of National Accounts. National Accounts are based on the international definitions of the European System of Accounts (ESA 2010). Small temporary differences with publications of the National Accounts may occur due to the fact that government finance statistics are sometimes more up to date. The terms used for the individual social benefits are based on national legislation. Social benefits by employers in the context of other employment related social insurance schemes are not included in this table.

Data available from:
Yearly figures from 1995.

Status of the figures:
The figures for the period 1995-2023 are final. The figures for 2024 are provisional.

Changes as of 24 June 2025:
Annual figures for year 2024 are available.
The annual figures for 2023 are now final.
In the context of the revision policy of National accounts, the annual figures 2022 have been revised.
Additionally, a correction has been made to the figures for 2022 for the Work and Care Act (WAZO) benefits related to the expanded partner leave.

When will new figures be published?
Yearly figures are published six months after the end of the year concerned.
These yearly figures are revised eighteen months after the end of the year concerned. Please note that there is a possibility that adjustments might take place at the end of March or September, in order to provide the European Commission with the most actual figures.
More information on the revision policy of National Accounts can be found under 'relevant articles' under paragraph 3.