Social Allowance
Plain English
It's a monthly INPS allowance for people aged 67 or older who have very low or no income, regardless of contributions paid. It replaced the older pensione sociale and is means-tested every year.
Why it matters
It\'s a basic safety net for elderly residents without enough pension contributions. Non-EU citizens generally need at least 10 years of legal residence in Italy to qualify.
Real example
"After 14 years of legal residence in Massa, with very small pension contributions from on-and-off work, Hatice applied for the assegno sociale at 67. INPS confirmed eligibility a few months later."
Common confusion
It\'s not a pension you build through work. It\'s a means-tested allowance, paid only if your income stays under the yearly threshold, and only as long as you keep residence in Italy.
Official source
INPS