Thailand Prepares to Boost Welfare Card Budget If Shortfall Emerges

The government is monitoring the 2027 state welfare card budget allocation of 420 billion baht, which is down from the 4.7 billion baht monthly allocation in 2026. Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Laweron Saengsonit revealed that if the budget proves insufficient, the government stands ready to supplement it with central funds, following established practice. The government is also preparing to overhaul the entire welfare system to prevent duplicate benefit payments.

Saengsonit disclosed that the Public-Private-Benefit Committee for Grassroots Economy and Social Affairs will meet on July 3rd to finalize the number of applicants who passed screening for the 2026 state welfare card. The results will be presented to the Cabinet for approval on July 7 or 14, with beneficiary names announced on July 17.

While the 2027 budget represents a decrease from 2026 levels, Saengsonit noted that whether it will be sufficient depends on the final number of approved applicants from 2026. "If the allocated budget falls short, we will use central funds to cover the gap, which is the standard practice each year," he said.

Saengsonit emphasized that the government needs to understand how much support each Thai citizen receives and ensure it is adequate without duplication. He highlighted that the Finance Ministry is pushing for implementation of a Negative Income Tax system, which will leverage Big Data to ensure citizens receive appropriate welfare benefits efficiently and eliminate overlap.

Regarding the economy, Saengsonit noted that first-half performance remains solid, bolstered by various government measures. He added that third-quarter growth is expected to receive continued support from the Thailand Helping Thailand Plus program, helping sustain economic momentum.