Cabinet Approves 18.8 Million Poorcard Recipients
Thailand's cabinet has approved welfare card eligibility for 18.8 million people, eliminating parental tax and agricultural debt requirements to better support vulnerable populations. Results will be announced July 17, with distributions be
The cabinet has approved welfare card eligibility for 18.8 million people, removing requirements for parental tax deductions and agricultural debt considerations. Results will be announced on July 17, with the first batch receiving funds on August 1 and new recipients on October 1. An appeals process will be available, and those not selected can apply for the alternative "Thai Helping Thai Plus 60/40" program. Winitj Wisetsuwannaphumi, director of the Fiscal Policy Office and finance ministry spokesman, announced that the cabinet revised state welfare eligibility criteria for 2025 to better cover vulnerable populations. The committee will review the updated criteria on July 16 before announcing results on July 17. Two key criteria have been eliminated: parental tax deduction requirements and agricultural debt assessments, as farmers often carry debts exceeding 100,000 baht due to disasters or other assistance measures. Spouse and dependent deductions remain in effect. The 18.8 million recipients comprise three groups: 12.72 million existing verified recipients, 1.05 million registered with the Interior and Social Development ministries but not yet receiving benefits, and 5.04 million vulnerable people identified in a June survey who have never received state welfare. Those denied can file for reconsideration with clear explanations of which criteria they failed. Those ineligible for the welfare card but seeking support can access the Thai Helping Thai Plus 60/40 program through the Pao Tang app during the two-month transition period without re-registering. The Finance Ministry will coordinate with the Budget Office to ensure sufficient funds for all eligible applicants.
