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Complain about a NAV decision

Translated: translated from the Norwegian original with the help of a language model, and may contain errors. The Norwegian version is the authoritative one. See the Norwegian original →

Disagree with a decision from NAV? You have the right to complain. How to do it, and what happens afterwards.

Norwegian original last checked against official sources: 21 September 2026. Rules and deadlines change, so always check the official site before you act.

Have you received a decision from NAV that you believe is wrong? You have the right to complain. Complaining is a normal part of how the system is meant to work, and does not mean you are being difficult.

Check the deadline first

The complaint deadline is stated in the decision you received. It varies with the type of case. For many benefits it is six weeks, while for some cases, such as social services, it can be shorter, such as three weeks. Look for the date in the letter and keep it.

If the deadline has passed, NAV can still process the complaint if the delay isn't your fault, or there are special grounds. In that case, explain why you are late.

How to complain

You can complain digitally or on paper. NAV has its own forms at nav.no/klage. The complaint should include:

  • which decision you are complaining about (date and case number if available),
  • what you believe is wrong, in your own words,
  • why you believe it is wrong, and what you want to happen,
  • new documentation that may be relevant, for example a doctor's statement or income information.

What happens afterwards?

  1. The unit that made the decision reviews the case again.
  2. If they do not rule in your favour, the complaint is sent on to NAV klageinstans (NAV's appeals unit). This is an independent body that reassesses the case. You get a letter when this happens.
  3. If you still disagree, you can go on to the National Insurance Court (Trygderetten), and potentially the courts. You can also contact the Parliamentary Ombud (Sivilombudet).

Help

NAV can guide you. You can also use a lawyer or give power of attorney to someone else. In some types of cases you can apply for free legal aid.

Tip: Note the date you sent the complaint, and keep a copy. Keep all letters you receive.

NAV. Right to complain (Norwegian) →

Sources

Kontaktpunkt24 gives general information, not legal advice. If you need help with your own case, contact a lawyer, a legal aid service, or the relevant authority.

This page is translated from Norwegian with the help of a language model, and may contain errors. The Norwegian version is always the authoritative one.