Nearly 17,000 Families in Moldova to Be Denied Heating Compensation Because They Own a Car

Heating compensation will be denied to nearly 17,000 families in Moldova because they own a car purchased within the past three years. This was announced by Labour and Social Protection Minister Natalia Plugaru. According to the minister, the restriction applies to cars purchased in the past three years, whether in Moldova or abroad. She explained that owning a recently purchased car is considered an indication of a household’s financial standing and its ability to pay energy bills, reports Realitatea.md. “The fact that you have been able to buy a car in the past three years indicates a certain level of financial well-being and an ability to pay your bills,” Plugaru said. She clarified that the compensation scheme is designed to support low-income households. In assessing a family’s financial situation, the authorities take several sources of income into account, including salaries, interest and dividends. During the 2026-2027 heating season, at least 660,000 households are expected to receive compensation. The minimum allowance will be 500 lei, while the maximum will be 1,000 lei for households using natural gas or district heating.