The social bill bonus is intended for those who find themselves in situations of economic hardship. But now it will suffer heavy reductions
Soon, many Italian families will have to face increases in electricity bills, as the extraordinary contribution for low-income families will be eliminated. This bonus, also known as the electricity bonus for economic hardship, was introduced by the government in 2023, but will now no longer be paid, making the cost of energy utilities higher for families who benefited from it.
Italian families will have to deal with significant changes in their electricity bills starting next month, as the extraordinary contribution for low-income families will be eliminated, making careful management of financial resources essential.
Bill bonus canceled or decreased?
In general, the social bill bonus is intended for those who find themselves in situations of economic hardship, mainly families with a low income. This includes families with an ISEE of less than 9,530 euros and fewer than four children, or families with an ISEE of less than 20,000 euros and more than four children. During 2024, families with incomes between 9,530 euros and 15,000 euros can also benefit from the social bonus.
However, to fully understand the impact of this decision on Italian families, it is important to analyze details of the changes that will come into effect after March 31st regarding the electricity bill, given that the bonus amounts have been reduced.
The amount of the subsidy is equal to 80% of the amount established by law and communicated directly by the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment (Arera). This bonus includes a 30% discount on electricity costs and a 15% discount on gas. These discounts must be calculated net of taxes for gas and gross for electricity.
However, the additional relief, introduced by the Bill Decree in March 2023 and extended until 31 March 2024 by the 2024 Budget Law, will no longer be in force from 1 April 2024. This additional contribution, with an overall budget of 200 million euros for the whole of 2024, was intended exclusively for beneficiaries of the electricity social bonus for economic hardship.
Starting from April 1, 2024, the electricity bonus amounts will be reduced without the extraordinary contribution. For example, for a family unit made up of 1-2 people, the annual bonus will be 142.74 euros and the monthly bonus will be 11.7 euros. For a family unit with 3-4 members, the annual bonus will be 183.00 euros and the monthly bonus will be 15.0 euros. Finally, for a family unit with more than 4 members, the annual bonus will be 201.30 euros and the monthly bonus will be 16.5 euros.
