Households themselves estimated what amounted to “difficulties in making ends meet”. The situation was judged as such if a household found it hard to afford normal expenses.

According to income distribution statistics for 2010, the majority of households experiencing difficulties estimated their income problems not to be very serious. The number of households experiencing serious trouble with making ends meet remained much the same from 2009 to 2010.

Statistics Finland says the reason for the increase in those experiencing economic difficulties is mostly accounted for by the growing number of pensioners.