The Italian government has reaffirmed its social bonus for utility bills in 2025, specifically designed to offer financial relief to families facing economic hardship or physical disabilities. This initiative is a part of a broader commitment to help alleviate the financial burden of household utility costs by applying discounts directly to electricity, gas, and water bills.
The eligibility for these social bonuses is automatic, provided families have completed their Single Substitute Declaration (DSU) to obtain their ISEE certification. As per the updated regulations, a household can qualify for the bonus if their ISEE is below 9,530 euros for families with up to three dependent children or 20,000 euros for households with four or more dependent children.
For the electricity bonus, families with one or two members will see a total annual discount of approximately 167.90 euros, translating to a monthly reduction of 13.80 euros. Households comprising three or four members are entitled to an annual bonus of 219 euros, or 18 euros monthly. Larger families, consisting of five or more members, will benefit from a higher annual discount of 240.90 euros, which amounts to 19.80 euros each month.
Interestingly, families who received the bonus in 2023 with an ISEE ranging from 9,530 to 15,000 euros and had fewer than four children will notice a significant adjustment in 2025; the amount will be reduced to 80% of the ordinary benefit.
The gas bonus offers flexibility based on various factors, including climate zone, family size, and gas usage. For families of up to four people, the bonus varies from around 11.70 euros, applicable for households using gas solely for cooking and hot water, to a maximum of 91.80 euros per quarter for those using gas for heating during winter months. Conversely, larger families can expect slightly higher bonuses, with maximum quarterly values potentially exceeding 93 euros.
This adjustment, particularly for families previously eligible for a higher amount, requires careful monitoring of ISEE criteria to continue receiving benefits.
In addition, the water bonus ensures free access to 50 liters of water daily for each family member, which means a family of four can receive a discount corresponding to 200 liters per day. The exact value of this benefit will depend on local tariff rates set by the water provider in their specific area.
As logistics dictate, the bonus discount is applied automatically on utility bills, provided the supply is registered in the name of an ISEE household member. Centralized supplies, such as heating gas, require submission of the Delivery Point (PDR) code, while the water bonus only applies if at least one family member has an active domestic electricity account.
Critically, the time frame for applying the discount varies. For direct supplies of electricity and gas, families can expect to see the discount reflected about three to four months following the ISEE certification date. However, it can take six to seven months for the water bonus to be applied. For centralized gas supplies, the bonus will only be reflected after the PDR code is sent and verified.
Additionally, there’s a specific bonus aimed at families facing severe health challenges who require life-saving medical equipment. This program is part of the support system categorized as a social bonus for physical hardships.
To claim the relevant bonus, families only need to complete the Single Substitute Declaration (DSU) to obtain their ISEE attestation. The DSU can be submitted online via the official INPS website, at a Tax Assistance Center (CAF), or at INPS offices with a scheduled appointment.
Ultimately, the Italian government's commitment to aiding families in economic need through these utility billing bonuses signifies a proactive approach to reducing the fiscal stress associated with essential services.
