While the current 72-installment debt settlement plan is actively in force for certain older liabilities, economic policymakers have already explored a more flexible framework—one that could, in specific cases, extend repayment periods well beyond that number. So far, 120 installments has served as a theoretical upper limit under this alternative approach, reflecting how far authorities might stretch payment terms to ease the burden on financially strained debtors.
No Decision Yet on a Broad 120-Installment Scheme
At present, there is no official decision to introduce a generalised 120-installment arrangement for outstanding debts. Instead, the idea forms part of a broader, more tailored strategy being considered for older obligations—particularly those owed to social security funds like EFKA (the Unified Social Insurance Fund). This approach would move away from uniform rules and instead calibrate repayment terms to each debtor’s actual financial capacity, business performance, and long-term viability.
Context: The Current 72-Installment Plan
The recently launched 72-installment scheme applies to overdue liabilities accrued up to 31 December 2023—provided they were not already under restructuring as of 21 April 2026 or included in another active agreement at the time of application. Applications remain open until 31 December 2026. In contrast, debts arising from 1 January 2024 onward fall under the standard 24-installment framework.
Origins of the 120-Installment Discussion
The idea predates the current 72-installment plan. As early as March, government planning documents outlined a vision for a more individualised debt resolution model targeting EFKA arrears. Under that proposal, installment counts would be determined case-by-case—based on factors such as the debtor’s payment history, corporate financial data, and sustainability outlook. Installment plans could then range from 48 to 120—or potentially even more—depending on verified hardship and repayment capacity.
This model is fundamentally different from today’s 72-installment framework. It does not propose a one-size-fits-all extension but rather a differentiated system where greater flexibility—including longer timelines—is reserved for those who can credibly demonstrate genuine difficulty meeting existing obligations.
Why the Debate Persists
The discussion remains relevant due to the sheer scale of accumulated debt. EFKA’s outstanding receivables stood at €50.68 billion—a figure that has kept debt relief high on the policy agenda. Since the start of the year, calls for extended repayment options—including up to 120 installments—have re-emerged, backed by market stakeholders advocating for deeper restructuring tools to support economic recovery and fiscal stability.