The bonus for young people under 35 changes pace and officially opens also to freelancers with a VAT number, who have so far been excluded from the measure. INPS clarifies this with message no. 270/2026, which implements the indications of the Ministry of Labour. An update that corrects the previous instructions and expands access to the contribution provided by the Cohesion Decree for the start of new activities. The measure provides economic support designed to encourage youth employment and entrepreneurship, with a total contribution of up to 18,000 euros over three years.
How much is the bonus worth and how is it paid out
The contribution consists of 500 euros per month for 36 months, paid in monthly installments. Alternatively, INPS can proceed with an advance annual payment of 6,000 euros, without taxation. The sums received are in fact net, not subject to taxes. The bonus is part of the incentive package of the Cohesion Decree, which also includes parallel measures for companies that hire young people under 35, in the form of a tax credit or contribution exemption.
Requirements: who can apply
All young people under 35 who started a business between 1 July 2024 and 31 December 2025 in one of the strategic sectors identified by the legislation can access the bonus. For freelancers, the time requirement is satisfied from the date of opening of the VAT number. There are no ISEE or income limits, but it is necessary that the activity falls among those considered strategic, a very broad list that goes from manufacturing to professional services, from tourism to entertainment.
Application deadlines and procedures
The window for submitting the application is already open, but for VAT numbers there is a specific deadline: from 31 January to 2 March 2026. INPS has updated its online platform to allow requests to also be sent to this new category of beneficiaries. The application must be submitted online, by accessing the “Cohesion Decree Incentive” service via Spid or electronic identity card. It is essential to respect the deadlines, because access to the bonus is linked to the start-up times of the business and the windows established by the Institute.
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