Income Test is an official procedure used to determine eligibility and the amount of various public supports such as social assistance, student scholarships, and health premium subsidies. Conducted via the e-Government (e-Devlet) platform, this process lets applicants show whether they qualify for benefits provided by hospitals, municipalities, or the Social Security Institution (SGK).
Thanks to e-Government’s digital infrastructure, income tests can be renewed annually. After submitting an application, the approval process typically takes around 10 business days. Once completed, the test results can be viewed on screen and saved to a computer or phone if needed. This system makes it easier for citizens to access services appropriate to their income level.
Who Can Apply for the e-Government Income Test?
Who can apply? The answer depends on several important criteria:
- Turkish citizens residing within Turkey,
- Foreign nationals with a valid residence permit,
- Individuals whether covered by SGK or not,
- Students, families, elderly people, or persons with disabilities who wish to receive social assistance.
Anyone registered on the e-Government platform can complete the income test form. The test assesses household income, number of household members, rent, debts, and similar expenses.
How to Apply for the Income Test via e-Government?
Income test applications are now handled online through the e-Government portal for most citizens, replacing many in-person procedures. The application process is straightforward and can be completed in minutes. Steps include:
Application Steps
- Go to www.turkiye.gov.tr and sign in.
- Log in using your ID number and password.
- Type “Income Test Application” into the search bar.
- Select the “Social Assistance Application Service” under the Ministry of Family and Social Services section.
- Fill out the form with personal and household information.
- Enter income declarations, expenses, property deeds, and other relevant details.
- Confirm and submit the application.
Important Notes
- The number of household members and the incomes of those living together are evaluated collectively.
- For individuals living alone, only their personal income is considered.
- Test results are usually evaluated and available in the system within 10–15 days after application.
Once the process is complete, the applicant’s income status is officially recorded and automatically considered in other social assistance applications.
Where to See the Income Test Result on e-Government?
After submitting the income test, the result can be viewed through the e-Government system. Typically, results appear in the system within 10 business days from the date the application is processed and completed.
Steps to View the Income Test Result
- Log into the e-Government system with your Turkish ID number and password.
- Enter “Income Test Result Inquiry” in the search field.
- Click the relevant link under Social Security Institution (SGK) services.
- The most recent income test result registered for the individual will appear on the screen.
- If desired, the result can be downloaded as a PDF or printed.
What Appears on the Screen?
- Number of people in the household
- Total household income
- Average income per person
- SGK premium payment status
- Eligibility code for social assistance (for example, under Law No. 2022)
These details play a decisive role in many social support items such as the green card, GSS premium support, disability pension, and heating assistance.
When Should the Income Test Be Renewed?
The income test is not a one-time action. Changes in personal, financial, or family circumstances can render the test invalid. Therefore, in certain situations the income test must be renewed.
When Renewal Is Required
- Change in the number of household members (e.g., marriage, divorce, birth of a child)
- Significant increase or decrease in income (starting or losing a job)
- Moving or change of address
- Reapplying for a social assistance program
- Periodic updates required by SGK
Renewal Period
- The test result is generally valid for one year.
- If there is no change in circumstances, reapplication may not be necessary.
- However, institutions handling social assistance may sometimes request a new test.
For these reasons, if personal information or income changes, it is recommended to submit a new application through e-Government to avoid interruptions or loss of benefits.
Can You Appeal the Income Test Result?
In some cases, the income test result may be unfair or incorrect. Undeclared household income may have been counted, or a system error may have caused misclassification. In such cases, applicants have the right to appeal.
Circumstances That May Warrant an Appeal
- Incorrect counting of household members
- Errors in income calculations
- Missing or incorrectly recorded assets such as property or vehicles
- Failure to account for legitimate expenses
How to Submit an Appeal
- Open the income test application screen on e-Government.
- Select the “Appeal against income test result” option.
- Upload the reason for the appeal and supporting documents through the system.
- The request is forwarded to the relevant Social Assistance and Solidarity Foundation (SYDV).
- Appeals are generally resolved within 15 business days.
If the appeal is approved, the income test result in the system is updated and the corrected information is reflected to SGK and other public institutions.
What Happens If You Don’t Take the Income Test?
The income test is particularly required under the General Health Insurance (GSS) system. If the test is not completed, the person’s income level is assumed at the highest level, and the GSS premium is determined accordingly.
If You Do Not Complete the Income Test:
- SGK may assume the person’s income equals twice the minimum wage.
- A high monthly GSS premium debt will be calculated based on that assumption.
- That debt accrues interest and, if unpaid, may lead to enforcement proceedings.
- Those with GSS debt cannot access free healthcare services at state hospitals.
- Benefit statements may not be accessible via e-Government or SGK.
Retroactive Effects
- If the income test is completed later, previous debts may be recalculated.
- Unduly high debts may be reduced or canceled after a proper test is recorded.
- For these reasons, it is important to complete the income test on time; in case of delay, reapply immediately.
Failing to perform the income test can have serious financial consequences. Anyone who wants to benefit from health coverage and social supports should complete this procedure in a timely manner.