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The Bulgarian National Social Security Institute (NSSI) has clarified the eligibility requirements for surviving spouses seeking a survivor’s pension. The guidance was provided as part of a collaborative project between the newspaper 24 Chasa and the weekly publication Klub 100, which allows readers to submit questions regarding pensions, unemployment benefits, and other social security matters to NSSI experts.
According to the NSSI, a surviving spouse is eligible for a survivor’s pension upon reaching an age that is five years lower than the standard retirement age required for a pension based on length of service and age. Alternatively, a surviving spouse may qualify for the pension before reaching this age if they are deemed incapacitated, defined as individuals with a 50 percent or higher degree of permanent disability as determined by the Territorial Expert Medical Commission (TELK) or the National Expert Medical Commission (NELK).
When applying for a survivor’s pension from a deceased spouse who was not a pensioner, the applicant must provide documentation to establish the deceased’s length of service and insurance history. Required documents include employment records, service booklets, and official certificates of insurance history. The NSSI noted that for periods after January 1, 1997, the institute utilizes data already available in its internal information systems and registers to calculate the pension.
Applications for a survivor’s pension must be submitted using the official UP-1 form, which is available on the NSSI website under the forms section. The application can be filed in several ways:
In person or through an authorized representative at the local NSSI office corresponding to the applicant’s permanent or current address.
Via a licensed postal operator.
Electronically through the NSSI Unified Electronic Services Portal, using a qualified electronic signature (KES), a personal identification code (PIC) issued by the NSSI, or a PIC issued by the National Revenue Agency (NAP). Applicants should select service number 151, titled Issuance of an order for granting, changing the actual amount, or refusing a personal or survivor’s pension.
Through the Secure Electronic Delivery system, provided the user has a registered profile and possesses a KES, an NSSI PIC, or a NAP PIC.
Article and image source: 24chasa.bg
