The difficulty of leaving the family home is a palpable reality in the Valencian Community and the rest of the country. The statistics are clear: according to the Youth Council, the vast majority of young workers (7 out of 10) are unable to become independent, delaying the average age of emancipation to 30.
This phenomenon, which is chronic in southern Europe due to precarious wages and the high cost of housing, has prompted the latest reform promoted by the government.
From 2026, young people over the age of 23 will be able to access the Minimum Living Income (IMV) even if they live with their parents. The key to this measure lies in updating the amount and making the cohabitation requirements more flexible.
An individual benefit of almost €734
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The updated regulations will allow young applicants to be considered an independent cohabitation unit from 2026 onwards, even if they share a roof with their parents. Thanks to an expected revaluation of 11.4%, the guaranteed benefit for an individual beneficiary will range from €733.6 to €733.9 per month.
To access this amount, it will be essential to prove that, despite living under the same roof, the young person functions as a separate economic unit, without structurally sharing expenses or income with their family members.
Who is eligible? Age requirements
Social Security has established specific criteria depending on the age range and vulnerability of the applicant:
- Young people aged 23 to 29: To prevent the aid from discouraging job seeking, the requirement for prior independence has been tightened. They must prove that they have lived independently (away from their parents’ home) for at least two years prior to the application. This is usually proven by means of rental contracts, historical registration, and Social Security registration.
- Over 30 years of age: In this age group, the requirement is reduced. It will be sufficient to prove that they have lived outside the family home during the year prior to applying for the aid. There are exceptions for reasons of force majeure, such as the death of parents.
- Cases of special vulnerability (from the age of 18): The rule is more protective of specific groups. Young people who have left the care of the Generalitat or other administrations, victims of gender violence, sexual exploitation, or homeless people may apply from the age of majority without the prior independence requirements.
Procedures and necessary documentation
The management of this assistance will continue to be centralized at the National Social Security Institute (INSS). Those interested in the Valencian Community can process their application in two ways:
- Online: Through the Electronic Office, using a digital certificate or the Cl@ve system.
- In person: By making an appointment at the Social Security Information and Assistance Centers (CAISS).
In order for the application to be approved, it will be necessary to provide your DNI or NIE, your certificate of residence (collective and historical), your employment history, and all financial documentation proving your lack of income and financial independence from your parents.