Iran Finalizes Pension Increase: Multi-Stage Payment of Arrears Underway for Millions
Iran’s Social Security Organization has announced the implementation of a significant pension increase, with the payment of accrued arrears now actively being processed for millions of retirees and beneficiaries across the country.
The comprehensive payment plan, which follows continued oversight from the country’s Court of Audit, covers the differential from an annual pension adjustment and increase that came into effect at the beginning of the current Iranian year (March 2024). The move is a key social welfare initiative aimed at supporting retirees’ livelihoods.
Key Details of the Payment Plan
The organization has detailed a clear, three-phase schedule to disburse a total of over 25,665 billion Tomans to more than 4.5 million pensioner files. The entire process is slated for completion by the end of the current month of Shahrivar (September 21, 2024).
According to the official announcement:
- Phase One commenced on September 12, targeting disabled pensioners and those retirees whose total monthly pension and benefits are less than 20 million Tomans. This phase has already been executed.
- Phase Two is synchronized with the regular payment of September pensions and will cover all surviving beneficiaries, including surviving spouses and daughters.
- Phase Three will address the arrears for all other pensioners, including those with monthly incomes exceeding 20 million Tomans, and is scheduled for the early days of the next month (Mehr).
Oversight and Implementation
The directive to settle these arrears by the end of Shahrivar followed persistent follow-ups by Iran’s Court of Audit, underscoring the state’s commitment to upholding the financial rights of its retirees. This step is viewed as a crucial measure to enhance pensioners’ welfare and has been met with widespread satisfaction.
Minister of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare, Ahmad Meydari, had previously confirmed the September 15 start date for the payments, providing clarity after a period of anticipation.
Regular September Pension Schedule
In related news, the standard monthly pensions for September are also on track for payment. Social Security retirees will receive their regular monthly pension on September 19, 20, and 21. Civil service retirees are scheduled for payment on September 20, and military retirees will receive theirs on September 21.
This coordinated effort highlights the government’s structured approach to managing its social security obligations and ensuring timely financial support for its retired population.