Application window opens

The Italian social security institute INPS opened its online service on 20 October 2026 for the 2026 mothers' bonus, a benefit set out in the 2026 budget law. The procedure is described in INPS message no. 3343 of 20 October 2026, which supplements circular no. 106 of 16 October 2026. The contribution pays 60 euros for each month or part of a month of work during 2026, for up to twelve months and a maximum of 720 euros. Applications can be filed until 31 December 2026, and mothers who meet the requirements only in December have until 31 January 2027.

Who qualifies

Eligible workers include employees in the public and private sectors and self-employed women registered with mandatory social security funds, including professional pension funds and the Gestione Separata. Domestic workers are excluded. Annual income from work must not exceed 40,000 euros. Mothers of two children qualify if the youngest child is under ten, while mothers of at least three children qualify if the youngest is under 18. INPS clarifies that mothers of three children on permanent contracts do not receive the new contribution for the months covered by that contract, where a full exemption from IVS contributions may apply instead. Mothers of two children can receive the 60 euros even while on a permanent contract.

How to apply

Applicants log in at inps.it with a digital identity, either SPID at level 2 or the electronic identity card at level 3, the National Services Card or eIDAS. From there they reach the 'Punto d'accesso alle prestazioni non pensionistiche' and complete the form. Applicants enter their own details and those of their children, including personal data and tax codes. The form can be completed alone or with help from a patronato. Those who prefer phone support can call the toll-free number 803 164 from a landline, or 06 164 164 from a mobile, which is charged at the operator's rate. Open reports that the website is currently overloaded because of the high number of requests.

Payment timing and review

Applications are examined in the order they arrive. If processing is completed in time, the months for 2026 are paid as a single sum in December 2026, together with the December salary month. If processing is not finished by then, the amounts are paid from January 2027 once the review ends. The online service shows receipts and application status, and lets applicants update payment details. Fanpage gives an example that a worker who lost a job in June and found no new work could still claim 360 euros. A rejected or partly accepted application can be reviewed, but the request must be filed online with documents that clarify the applicant's position. The sums are not part of taxable income and do not count toward ISEE.