Can I use my benefits during parental/study leave?

The employer is generally not obligated to provide employee benefits during a layoff or unpaid leave unless otherwise agreed upon.

If the employer and employee have agreed that the employee will receive employee benefits during a layoff or other unpaid leave (such as maternity leave, parental leave, sick leave, and sabbatical leave), the benefits are tax-free under the same conditions as when the employee is working.

Lunch benefit can only be loaded based on working days. Previously loaded lunch benefit can also be used on leave, but the employer adds balance only for actual working days.

This instructions is based on the Finnish Tax Administration's guidelines.

If you have any further questions about the use of benefits in exceptional situations, please contact your workplace's human resources department or the person responsible for employee benefits.