Taxes

In Finland all the residents are equal as for taxation. People pay municipal taxes and state taxes on salaries. Those belonging to the church also pay church taxes. Municipal taxes range from 15-20%, depending on the municipality.

State taxation is progressive. At its highest it can be about 40% of the taxable income. In addition to taxes there are different fiscal obligations, for example unenployement insurance.

 

Maternity

Family allowance is paid for ten months in accordance with the health insurance law and either the mother or father can take the time off work to look after the child. Either parent has the option to take an extended leave as a parental leave, while maintaining the right to return to his or her former job. The child benefit is paid monthly to the parents of children under 17. Single parents receive a small raise in their child benefits.

All expecting mothers or adoptive parents get a maternity gift from the state. This is either a parcel of baby clothes and other items or a corresponding amount of money, which is 140€. If the mother gets twins, they receive three maternity gifts and if she has triplets, they receive six maternity gifts. The theme of the gift changes every year.

This is what the maternity gift of 2020 includes: see picture beside.

 

Extra services for women in working life

The majority of women under 65 work outside home. The provision of day-care facilities is an important factor that has made this possible. Municipalities have to provide financial support to those taking care of children under 3 at home, if the child is not in municipal day-care. The child can be in day-care until they start school. Children get a warm meal in day-care centres and at school.

We have the so called ”First home” -organization which offeres single mothers accomodation before and after the birth of their child. It is publicly funded. There are 9 houses in different places in Finland.