Title: Iran’s Fourth Phase of Essential Commodity Support: Official Deposit Timeline Announced
Tehran – The Iranian government’s targeted subsidy program, a key initiative designed to support low-income households and mitigate inflationary pressures, is now preparing to launch its highly anticipated fourth phase. While the precise deposit date is being finalized, officials have confirmed the structure and continued commitment to the program.
A Program for the People
This phase of the electronic commodity coupon scheme will provide direct support for the purchase of 11 essential goods, including rice, cooking oil, chicken, eggs, and dairy products. The credits are designated for use at authorized retail chains, ensuring the assistance is directly channeled toward vital living expenses.
The allocated amounts for the new phase are as follows:
- Lower-income deciles (1-3): 500,000 Tomans per person
- Middle-income deciles (4-7): 350,000 Tomans per person
Government Commitment to Continuity
The program has seen significant rollout since its inception, with three previous phases executed in March, April, and July of 2024. Each phase was backed by a substantial budget of approximately 25 trillion Tomans and reported high uptake from its target demographic.
Ahmad Meydari, Minister of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare, recently emphasized the government’s full support for the program’s continuation. He stated, “Over the past eight months, three phases have been implemented. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous four years. Given the economic conditions, the program is essential and must continue, either on a monthly or quarterly basis.”
Timeline and Implementation Scenarios
The exact timing for the disbursement of the fourth phase credits is currently under review, with two primary scenarios under consideration by officials:
- Monthly Disbursement: If the program continues on a monthly schedule, credits could be deposited into household accounts by the end of September.
- Quarterly Disbursement: If the government opts for a quarterly model, the deposit would be scheduled for October.
The primary factor determining the timeline is the final allocation of the program’s budget. The government secures funding through various channels to ensure the scheme’s sustainability.
A Vital Economic Tool
The commodity coupon system is a crucial mechanism for preserving the purchasing power of millions of Iranian families. By directing subsidies toward specific essential goods rather than cash transfers, the program ensures the assistance is used for its intended purpose, effectively reducing the burden of living costs for those who need it most.
Citizens can check their status and access the program through the official SHOMA platform (shoma.sfara.ir) and affiliated mobile applications. Authorized stores include major retail chains such as Etka, Refah, and Ofogh Kourosh.
The public is advised to follow the official announcements from the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare and the Social Security Organization for the definitive deposit date. The continued execution of this program underscores the government’s focus on economic stability and social support.