In a surprise twist of economic maneuvers, Thailand’s Finance Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, has bumped up the timeline for the much-anticipated second phase of the 10,000-baht cash handout. Originally penciled in for later in the month, the disbursement will now hit the fast track on January 27, two days ahead of schedule. The main beneficiaries? A whopping 3.5 to 4 million elderly Thais, those who carry the wisdom of 60 years or more, who’ll soon see a boost to their bank accounts courtesy of the government’s PromptPay app.
This financial stimulus is part of a grander government vision initially targeting all citizens aged 16 and above, with an ambitious budget fit for a king’s ransom—500 billion baht to be exact. However, fiscal prudence demanded a rethink, introducing income-based eligibility criteria to dodge the risks of reckless spending. Only those with an annual income below 840,000 baht and savings not surpassing 500,000 baht are in the qualifying bracket. As a result, eligibility ranks have shrunk to about 50 million hopefuls, with predictions of around 45 million actually registering.
The distribution strategy took a strategic pivot. While it was set to be a nationwide, single-event windfall, it has since refocused its energy on assisting Thailand’s most vulnerable, namely state welfare cardholders and those grappling with disabilities, comprising some 14.5 million folks in dire need. Those registered via the Tang Rath app but still empty-handed are now hoped to be successfully included in the third phase, where April showers just might usher in digital cash showers.
On January 7, amidst a backdrop of anticipation, the Ministry of Finance confirmed that the silver generation will see their coffers swell with the 10,000-baht cash gifts by January 29. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat shed more light during a press event, stating, “We assure you, the 10,000-baht payments will hit accounts before the deadline.” The baton of responsibility was passed to the Digital Government Development Agency (DGA), which is dancing swiftly to complete verification before handing over to the Ministry of Finance. Like clockwork, funds should be dolled out within a neat window of seven to eight days following final checks by the Comptroller General’s Department.
And not to forget, those tapping into the Tang Rat app, prepare to revel in the convenience of digital benefits, with recipient confirmations likely by January 20 to 21. A hiccup or two with unlinked PromptPay accounts could merely be a blip in the timeline, with additional measures ensuring no one misses out.
This Phase 2 scheme, while more demure in its economic punch compared to its predecessor, plays a critical role in the grand orchestra of Thailand’s stimulus efforts. Despite previous successes injecting billions with farming support schemes and digital receipt projects, there’s still work to be done. Programs like the Digital Money Project Phase 3 and the SML community development initiative are expected to bolster the economy further by mid-2025.
However, behind the scenes, political dramatics brew with former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn airing concerns that the budget’s proximity to local elections might turn murky, suggesting an ulterior motive to swing public preference. The government’s steadfastness in proceeding by the end of February, despite the bluster, speaks to its focus on aiding 4 million elderly souls.
The updated eligibility requires seniors to jump through a few hoops—registering through the Tang Rat app, keeping a monthly income under 70,000 baht, and bank deposits south of 500,000 baht. The target? Reaching those missed in the first phase of the scheme launched in late September, ensuring a broader and more inclusive reach.
Thailand’s commitment to its elderly population remains unwavering, as the country sets the stage to make sure everyone benefits fairly, rain or shine, election period or not.
This is a great move for Thailand’s elderly citizens. The state should take care of its seniors, especially when economic times are hard.
While it seems noble, isn’t this just a ploy to gain favor before the elections? The timing is suspicious.
Even if it is political, the elderly get help. Sometimes good intentions don’t need pure motives.
In developed countries, would you accept this tactic? Our seniors need genuine reforms, not just handouts.
It’s a short-term fix. What happens when the money runs out? We need more sustainable strategies.
Sustainability is key, but immediate help is vital too. Not everything can be long-term in a crisis.
Agreed. There should be investments in programs that empower the elderly more permanently, like skills workshops.
Why aren’t more countries doing this? Government aid should prioritize vulnerable populations.
It’s not always feasible. Not every country has the budget to support everyone like this.
10,000 baht isn’t even that much money. This is just a band-aid solution.
But for some, it’s a lifeline where none existed before. Perspective matters, Sam.
Could this have repercussions we aren’t seeing? Like inflation or dependency issues?
Inflation is a risk, but the economy needs immediate stimulation. What’s your alternative?
What about the younger folks? They need jobs, not handouts.
Thailand has youth programs too. This is just focused support where it’s needed most.
Elections or not, this disbursement is thoughtful. Let’s focus on who benefits.
It’s surprising they didn’t start with the most vulnerable groups from the beginning. Better late than never!
All governments have tricks up their sleeves. As long as citizens benefit, it’s a win in my book.
But should we normalize such tricks? It might set a dangerous precedent.
True, Matilda, perhaps it’s more about finding balance between intentions and results.
This is classic economic stimulus. Pump money into the economy and watch it grow.
Only if the money is spent, though. If people save it, the stimulus effect slows down.
Right, let’s hope those receiving will either spend wisely or invest.
History shows these handouts don’t always lead to the intended long-term economic growth.
True, but short-term relief is better than sitting idle during challenging times.
I’m just happy for the elderly who can finally breathe a bit easier financially. Warm wishes to them!
About time the government did something! We’re not invisible yet.
No one’s forgetting the older generations. Just trying to catch up with swift changes!
Hopefully, they’ll also teach financial literacy to help use this wisely.
If the wealthy still benefit, then it’s clearly not a focused initiative.
The income cap seems to target lower-income individuals. I’d call that focus!
Achieving real equity is more complex than just a cap, Lexie.
Much more nuanced than just a handout. It’s a tool for broader economic growth.