Disability Levels: Deciphering Bituach Leumi Definitions

Core Concept

The disability degree, determined by the National Insurance Institute (Bituach Leumi), is a percentage that reflects the extent to which your illness or injury limits your ability to function and work. This percentage is the key to receiving various allowances and benefits. The higher the percentage, the more significant the support from the state.

Eligibility

Eligibility for the determination of a disability degree is established by a Bituach Leumi medical committee. Residents of Israel whose health has significantly deteriorated due to illness, accident, or a congenital defect may apply.

• Individuals with chronic illnesses.
• Individuals who have undergone a serious injury or surgery.
• Individuals with physical or mental limitations affecting their capacity for work.

Who is not eligible: A disability percentage is not established for temporary, minor illnesses (e.g., influenza) that do not result in long-term functional impairment.

Your Rights

Your rights are directly dependent on the medical disability percentage (נכות רפואית) and the degree of incapacity for work (דרגת אי כושר) determined by the committee. Specific amounts and benefits cannot be specified as they depend on an individual decision, but the general structure is as follows:

Important: This is only a general outline. The exact list of rights is determined solely by the Bituach Leumi's decision in your case.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Collection of medical documents. Gather all medical summaries from doctors, test results, and specialist opinions that confirm your condition.
2. Completion of the application form. The primary form for submission is the "Claim for General Disability Allowance" (תביעה לקצבת נכות כללית).
3. Submission of documents. The application with all attachments is submitted to the nearest Bituach Leumi branch or online via the personal account on the agency's website.
4. Awaiting a summons to the committee. After the documents are processed, you will be invited to a medical committee (ועדה רפואית). The waiting period can range from several weeks to several months.
5. Attending the committee. An expert physician will examine you and review your documents to determine the disability percentage.
6. Receiving the decision. The Bituach Leumi's decision will arrive by mail. In case of disagreement, you have the right to file an appeal within the specified period.

Document Checklist

This is a basic list. The exact list depends on your medical condition.

• Identity Card (Teudat Zehut).
• Claim form for General Disability Allowance (BL/7801).
• All medical documents related to your condition (doctor's opinions, hospital discharge summaries, examination results).
• Income documents for the last few months (if you were employed).
• Bank account details (a voided check or a bank printout).

Potential Pitfalls

• Completeness of Documents: An incomplete set of documents is the most common reason for rejection or delay. Bring everything you have.
• Appeal Deadlines: If you disagree with the committee's decision, you have a strictly limited time to file an appeal (usually 60 days). Do not miss this deadline.
• Conduct at the Committee: Speak clearly and to the point. Describe not the diagnosis, but how the illness impairs your daily life and work. Do not exaggerate, but also do not hesitate to speak about real difficulties.
• Professional Assistance: The process can be complex. Consider consulting with a lawyer or a company specializing in assistance with obtaining rights from Bituach Leumi.

Contacts and Links

As direct links to forms were not provided in the source data, it is recommended to search for them on the official Bituach Leumi website.

• Bituach Leumi General Call Center: *6050
• Official Website: Search for the phrase ביטוח לאומי on Google. A direct link to the application form cannot be provided as it was not in the source data.

Glossary