B'lev Shalem

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Newsletter | B'lev Shalem

Employers of caregivers, please take note: as of April 1, 2025 minimum wage in Israel will increase from ILS 5880.02 to 6247.67 per month. The wage increase applies to work in April, paid by May 9, 2025.

If you employ a full-time foreign caregiver, this means:

➡️ As of April 1, your caregiver's "base salary" can be no less than ILS 6,247/month

➡️ Payment for work on Rest Day (Shabbat) or Chag (Holy Day) can be no less than ILS 426.35

➡️ The increase affects calculation of various social benefits paid at the end of employment, including payment for accrued, unused vacation, pension and severance.

➡️ If you are taking permitted deductions for medical insurance, Bituach Leumi, housing and "other expenses", you may deduct the same amount from the adjusted "base salary" amount (check the regulations for details).

➡️ If you are paying additional "pocket money" of ILS 100 per week (i.e., an average of ILS 433 per month) that amount is generally deemed "wages" paid as a salary advance, in which case you may already be paying the new minimum amount. It is likely that your caregiver will ask for a wage increase to reflect the minimum wage increase, but the decision is at your discretion.

For clarifications and clarifications, consult with your tagid.

📣Employers of foreign caregivers, please take note:

👉 As of April 1, 2024, the minimum wage in Israel has increased from ILS 5572/month to ILS 5,880 per month. The change goes into effect for salary paid in May for work in April.

👉 The wage increase is relevant for payments for for work on rest days and holidays, and also payment of accrued, unused vacation, all of which are calculated according to the caregiver's base salary.

The new rates for caregivers earning minimum wage are:

Base salary (before permitted deductions) ➡️ ILS 5,880
Payment for Work on Rest Day ➡️ ILS 401
Payment for Work on Holiday (Chag) ➡️ ILS 401
Payment for Accrued/Unused Vacation Day ➡️ ILS 235

👉 Bituach Leumi payments for the first quarter of 2024 are due by April 20. You will find more information about Bituach Leumi contributions here: https://www.btl.gov.il/English%20Homepage/Benefits/LongTerm%20Care/moneyinsteadofservice/Pages/Obligationtopay.aspx

For information relating to the employment of foreign caregivers in Israel and other issues relating to aging in Israel, visit us at www.blevshalem.com

Click here to join our Sandwich Generation Israel Facebook group, a thriving community of family caregivers of aging loved ones in Israel!

👇👇👇
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SandwichGenIsrael

Like all employees in Israel, foreign caregivers are entitled to take off 9 paid holidays per year, according to either the calendar of their home country or Israel's national holidays.

If the caregiver works on their designated holiday (rather than take it off), and the holiday does not fall on their day of rest, they are entitled to payment at the same rate as work on their weekly day of rest.

For guidance and a list of holidays in 2024, click the link below 👇👇👇
https://blevshalem.com/does-your-loved-one-employ-a-foreign-caregiver-heres-how-holidays-work/

In these difficult days, those of us in the "sandwich generation" in Israel are juggling more than we ever thought possible.

You are not alone! Our Sandwich Generation Israel Facebook group is your resource in English for everything related to caring for an aging loved one in Israel. From information on employing foreign caregivers to tips on managing dementia, recommendations for geriatricians, guidance on Bituach Leumi, assistance with navigating senior Aliyah, and so much more, we've got you covered.

More importantly, Sandwich Generation Israel is a safe and supportive community. Its a space to openly share share challenges and concerns, seek guidance, or simply find a sympathetic ear.

Join us today by clicking the link below 👇👇👇
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SandwichGenIsrael

Together, we are stronger.

As we enter the second month of the war in Israel, let's honor the remarkable resilience of the "Sandwich Generation" in Israel. These family caregivers are balancing the needs of their children, workplaces, communities, and elderly loved ones amidst the emotional stress, concerns over safety, disruptions in caregiving, difficulty accessing healthcare, and social isolation caused by the conflict.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Here are some practical tips to enhance your elderly loved one's quality of life during times of conflict:

1. 🏡 Make their living space cozy and accessible, with proper lighting and familiar items.

2. 🍎 Pay attention to their diet and include nutrient-rich foods. Simple, home-cooked meals can make a big difference.

3. 📚 Engage them in activities like reading, puzzles, or learning something new to keep their minds active.

4. 🚶‍♀️Encourage light physical activities suited to their abilities, such as stretches or short walks.

5. 📅 Create a daily routine with regular meal times, activities, and rest periods to provide a sense of security.

6. 🎨 Encourage creative expression if they enjoy it, whether it's painting, crafting, or listening to music.

7. 💻 Provide opportunities for social interaction, even if it's virtual. Regular conversations with friends and family can combat feelings of isolation.

8. 💊 Keep a clear record of medications and their schedules. Ensure they are taking medications as prescribed and stay in close communication with their healthcare providers.

9. 🌳 If possible, spend time outdoors, whether it's a stroll in the garden or enjoying fresh air on the patio.

10. 👐 Regularly express your care and appreciation. Small gestures and quality time can make a big difference.

Share your own tips and experiences and let's support each other and our elderly loved ones.
Because together, we are stronger! 💙