Title: Government Expands Social Support with Combined Cash and Commodity Subsidy Rollout
In a significant move to bolster economic stability and support household purchasing power, the Iranian government has initiated the simultaneous distribution of the November cash subsidy alongside the fifth phase of the electronic commodity coupon scheme. This dual-pronged approach, announced by the Ministry of Cooperation, Labour, and Social Welfare and the Plan and Budget Organization, is a core component of the nation’s ongoing social protection strategy.
A Dual-Track Support System
This month’s support package delivers benefits through two primary channels. The first is the direct cash transfer, scheduled for two separate disbursement dates to ensure efficient processing. The second is the activation of the electronic commodity coupon, designed to provide direct access to essential goods at subsidized rates, thereby insulating citizens from market price fluctuations.
Detailed Payment Schedule for Cash Subsidies
Adhering to the established payment schedule, the distribution of the November cash subsidy is as follows:
- Lower-Income Deciles (1-3): Payments will be deposited into bank accounts on November 16, 2025.
- Middle-Income Deciles (4-9): Recipients in these brackets will receive their subsidies on November 21, 2025.
The allocated amounts are 4 million Rials for the lower-income deciles and 3 million Rials for the middle-income groups.
The Fifth Phase of the Electronic Commodity Coupon
Running concurrently with the cash payments, the fifth phase of the commodity coupon scheme is set to launch in the third week of November. This program is strategically focused on the first seven income deciles, with resources redirected from the higher deciles to strengthen support for those most in need.
Key features of this phase include:
- Expanded Basket of Goods: The list of subsidized items has been enhanced. Beyond staples like rice, oil, dairy, eggs, and chicken, new additions such as fish, shrimp, turkey, and quail meat are now included.
- Stable Subsidized Prices: These goods are available at designated stores at government-set prices, ensuring affordability and predictability for families.
- Monthly Credit Allocation: Eligible households receive a monthly purchasing credit, with 5 million Rials for deciles 1-3 and 3.5 million Rials for deciles 4-7.
Streamlined Access and Inquiries
The government has streamlined the process for citizens to check their eligibility and coupon balance. Multiple channels are available, including:
- Dialing the USSD codes
*78828#or*5001463#from a mobile phone. - Using the dedicated “Shoma” (You) mobile application.
- Visiting the “Pishkhan 24” website or other official government portals.
A dedicated customer service line (021-6369) is also operational to assist citizens with any inquiries.
Strategic Objectives and Economic Vision
This combined initiative underscores a targeted policy to mitigate the impact of inflation on essential living costs. By providing both direct financial assistance and guaranteed access to a stable-priced basket of goods, the program aims to effectively shield lower and middle-income households from economic pressures. Officials have emphasized that these reforms are geared towards achieving greater economic justice and reinforcing the social safety net, representing a continued commitment to the welfare of the Iranian people.