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Economic social assistance

social assistance emergency help no money food rent electricity nav social

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 →

Temporary help when you cannot cover what you need for food, housing and other necessary expenses. You have the right to apply and have your need assessed.

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

Economic social assistance (økonomisk sosialhjelp) is temporary support when you cannot cover necessary expenses yourself. It is the municipality, through the local NAV office, that is responsible.

You have the right to apply

Everyone has the right to apply and have their need assessed. According to NAV, as a general rule you must have lawful residence in Norway. You may be entitled to assistance when you have used all other income opportunities and it still isn't enough. NAV makes a specific assessment of your expenses, income and situation.

How to apply

• Digitally at nav.no.
• On a paper form, or by contacting your local NAV office.
• In an acute emergency, you should get a quick response.

It's useful to have ready: ID, pay slips or other income information, bank statements, rental contract and bills.

What you should know

• Rates are guideline amounts and vary between municipalities. Some municipalities have their own rates. Housing costs and transport come in addition.
• Activity: you can be required to work, apply for jobs, attend courses or take part in other activity in exchange for receiving assistance. If you are under 30, you must as a general rule participate in activity.
• Guidance: you have the right to advice and guidance from NAV, including financial counselling, regardless of whether you receive assistance. The service is free, and you should seek help early.

If you are refused

You can complain within three weeks. The complaint first goes to the same NAV office, and then to the County Governor (Statsforvalteren).

Tip: Don't wait until you have nothing left. Make contact early, and write down the date you applied and who you spoke to. See also How to contact NAV.

NAV. Economic social assistance (Norwegian) →

Sources

• NAV. Economic social assistance (Norwegian)
• NAV. No money for food, housing or other expenses (Norwegian)
• NAV. Social services and guidance (Norwegian)

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.