Social Security and Labour Minister Algimanta Pabedinskiene says the rent allowance growth will make this method of assistance more attractive to people waiting for social housing, thus it is hoped it will become significant support.
According to the minister, rent allowance will become more attractive not only to property owners but to tenants as well. Due to the amendment, more money will be provided per square metre. For example, in Vilnius rent allowance will grow from EUR 5.44 to EUR 8.7 per square metre, in Klaipeda – from EUR 2.98 to EUR 4.77. A part of the compensation may be used to cover utility charges. In addition, lessors will be encouraged to carry out legal and transparent activities.
Based on the data of the Ministry of Social Security and Labour, a total of 44 persons, or 14 families, receive rent allowance in Lithuania. It is estimated that the change of the coefficient size and targeted appropriations for compensations in the 2016 state budget would allow nearly 13,900 people to use rent allowance.
