Social assistance in Costa Rica is provided through different institutions and programs. The right starting point depends on the need: household essentials, support after an emergency, childcare or help for an older person. Ask the responsible institution to assess the situation and explain its current requirements.
This guide identifies official starting points. It does not promise a benefit, payment amount or approval based solely on living in Costa Rica.
IMAS: household needs and financial assistance
The Instituto Mixto de Ayuda Social (IMAS) publishes a directory of services and benefits. Start with the program matching your need and read both its general and specific requirements.
Atención a Familias addresses basic household needs such as food, housing and essential services. Its published requirements include valid identification, the household’s socioeconomic information in SINIRUBE and a signed declaration confirming information. Additional documents depend on the reason for the request.
Ask IMAS how to arrange an assessment, update household information and submit the correct supporting records. Do not treat a socioeconomic record as an approval notice. Keep a copy of what you provide and a reliable way to receive notifications.
Assistance after an emergency
The IMAS Emergencias benefit is an economic transfer for people or families affected by emergencies of natural or human origin. The published requirements include an incident report from a specified competent body or the appropriate IMAS assessment form.
Explain what happened and ask which evidence is needed for your case. Photograph damaged belongings only when it is safe, retain available records and follow the responding authorities’ instructions. An application for financial help is separate from an urgent request for rescue or medical assistance; use our emergency contacts guide when immediate help is needed.
Childcare support
IMAS’s Cuidado y Desarrollo Infantil program describes support toward the cost of childcare through eligible care alternatives. Check the current age, documentation and program requirements directly rather than assuming any private childcare bill will be covered.
Ask how a care alternative is selected, which costs are included and what changes must be reported. Confirm availability and arrangements with the provider as well as the institution. A general program description cannot guarantee a place or full payment.
Support for older people
CONAPAM describes long-stay homes, day centers and community care networks. Its program information addresses needs and social vulnerability, including support for people in poverty or at risk. Contact CONAPAM or the listed organization about assessment, eligibility and available capacity.
CONAPAM lists its Línea Dorada, 1165, for guidance, available around the clock. Our elderly-care guide explains questions to ask about care levels and authorization when comparing services.
Prepare for an appointment
- Identify the specific need and the institution responsible.
- Read its current requirements and ask which identification is accepted.
- Prepare the requested household and supporting information accurately.
- Ask how to correct outdated information or supply a missing document.
- Keep your reference number, copies and notification details.
- Request an explanation of the decision and available review procedure if necessary.
Use official contact channels and verify any request for personal documents before sending them. Avoid intermediaries promising guaranteed benefits. If language is a barrier, ask whether assistance is available or bring someone you trust, while protecting private information.
Keep healthcare and immigration questions separate
For insurance enrollment or healthcare access, consult the CCSS directly. For an immigration-status question, consult DGME. Neither question should be answered by assuming that a social-assistance program has approved your circumstances. The agency administering each service must explain how its rules apply to you.
Official sources reviewed September 7, 2026: IMAS program pages and CONAPAM information linked above. Requirements can change and individual assessment remains necessary. Images are contextual illustrations, not photographs of benefit recipients, staff or specific institutional offices.