Work-life balance: certification programme gets under way
Accredia is expected to announce today the first bodies authorised to issue certificates to companies regarding their work-life balance policies. A reduction in social security contributions of up to 50,000 euros per year is envisaged.
The certification process is about to begin for companies that implement policies to promote a work-life balance, as governed by the new Uni/Pdr 192:2026 standard, and rewarded with a reduction in the contributions payable to INPS, as provided for in the decree of 1 May (Decree-Law 62/2026).
Today, the decision-making committee of Accredia (the Italian accreditation body) is due to meet; it is expected to designate the first bodies authorised to issue the certificate to companies. This was the missing piece in the process leading to the new certification. The Department for Family Policies aims to have the first companies certified by the end of the year. This is also to enable the use of the funds allocated for the social security contribution incentive: seven million in 2026 and 12 million for each of the years 2027 and 2028.
What does the certificate consist of?
Companies that have already introduced, or are considering, measures to introduce flexible working hours to support parents or employees who are carers, or to enhance welfare benefits for families, may seek certification in accordance with the Uni Pdr 192:2026 standard from an accredited body, and will be eligible for a 1 per cent annual reduction in social security contributions, up to 50,000 euros per company. As the certification is valid for three years, as is the reduction in social security contributions, the potential saving amounts to 150,000 euros over the three-year period. However, funds will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis: if the number of applications exceeds the amount that can be funded annually, the support provided to beneficiaries will be reduced accordingly.
Apart from the savings on social security contributions, certified companies will also benefit from preferential treatment when accessing public incentives, as well as a reputational advantage in terms of their attractiveness and their ability to retain staff.
