Expanding Rights for Bereaved Families
Key rights established in Amendment No. 47 to the Fallen Soldiers' Families Law
Dear Families,
On January 26, 2026, Amendment No. 47 to the Fallen Soldiers' Families (Pensions and Rehabilitation) Law, 1950, was approved in its second and third readings.
This marks the conclusion of a significant and lengthy process led by the Department of Families, Commemoration and Heritage, which began with the establishment of a public committee chaired by retired Deputy President of the Supreme Court, Prof. Elyakim Rubinstein. The committee examined the support provided to IDF and security forces orphans, driven by a deep commitment to accompany families through life’s journey and stand by them at critical junctures as supporters and guides.
Alongside the committee, extensive groundwork was carried out to expand the rights for bereaved parents, widows, and widowers.
The committee’s recommendations were fully adopted by the Minister of Defense, who also ordered their expansion to ensure that bereaved families receive comprehensive support and guidance.
As part of the amendment, a comprehensive package of rights and benefits was approved.
The law will take effect on May 1, 2026. Updated information will be published in the coming days.
Orphans:
The age of recognition as an orphan has been raised from 21 to 30.
Orphans aged 21–40 will receive a monthly allowance.
Orphans over the age of 40 will receive a one-time grant, automatically transferred to their bank account in two installments based on age.
The amount of the marriage/first home/age 30 grant has been significantly increased.
The age for funding education and vocational training has been raised to 65. Additionally, rehabilitation and financial tools have been established for orphans over 30 who face difficulties integrating into the workforce.
Types of emotional interventions have been significantly expanded and will be provided even after age 30, alongside emotional therapy (up to 162 sessions).
Support for fertility treatments and surrogacy has been added.
The age for occupational assessment assistance has been raised to 60.
Living expenses for those receiving education or vocational training assistance have been eliminated.
Widows:
An addition to the monthly allowance for orphans aged 0–6.
An annual grant for tutoring for orphans.
A personalized support plan for orphans aged 0–21, totaling 50,000 NIS per child, will be developed with a social worker to help each child realize their full potential.
Significant increases in housing assistance amounts for first home purchases, relocation, renovations, rent, and mortgage reduction.
The option to purchase a used vehicle has been added.
Support for fertility treatments and surrogacy has been added.
The age for occupational assessment assistance has been raised to 60.
A monthly grant for the first 12 months following the loss.
Types of emotional interventions have been significantly expanded and will be provided at any age, alongside emotional therapy (up to 162 sessions).
Assistance with installing a lift once every 10 years.
Living expenses for those receiving education or vocational training assistance have been eliminated.
Parents:
An addition to the monthly allowance for siblings of the fallen aged 0–3, born up to five years before the loss.
Types of emotional interventions have been significantly expanded and will be provided at any age, alongside emotional therapy (up to 162 sessions).
Significant increases in housing assistance amounts for first home purchases, relocation, renovations, rent, and mortgage reduction.
One-time assistance for studies has been added.
Assistance with installing a lift once every 10 years.
Living expenses for those receiving education or vocational training assistance have been eliminated.
Siblings:
Types of emotional interventions have been significantly expanded and will be provided at any age, alongside emotional therapy (up to 162 sessions).
Additionally, special attention has been given to unique populations.
Dear families, no amendment can bring back your loved ones, but the state and the people can ensure that you do not bear this pain alone.
The amendment is a profound expression of commitment, respect, loyalty to values, and enduring gratitude.
At this time, we are working to complete the preparation processes to make the information and rights accessible to you.
We will be here for you and by your side,
"An eye that sees, an ear that listens, and a heart that understands"