Title: Government Outlines October Subsidy Payments and New Benefit Card Strategy
In a move to streamline its social support systems, the government has announced the detailed schedule for October’s direct cash subsidy payments. This initiative, operating under the framework of the national budget law, continues the policy of targeted economic assistance while managing the rollout of the new electronic benefit card scheme.
October Subsidy Payment Schedule
The direct cash transfers for the month of October will be deposited into the accounts of household heads according to a tiered system and schedule:
- Lower-Income Tiers (1-3): A payment of 400,000 Tomans per individual will be deposited on October 25.
- Middle Tiers (4-9): A payment of 300,000 Tomans per individual is scheduled for deposit on October 30.
This disbursement follows the established pattern of direct financial support to eligible families across the nation.
Strategic Pause in New Benefit Card Phase
Unlike the previous month, which saw the activation of the fourth phase of the electronic benefit card, no new phase will be launched in October. However, households in tiers one through seven retain access to the credit from the fourth phase until the end of the Iranian month of Aban (November 21, 2024). This credit can be used for the purchase of 12 essential goods, including rice, oil, red meat, poultry, dairy products, and pasta.
Officials have clarified that this temporary pause is part of a strategic management plan to ensure the program’s sustainability.
Financial Planning for Future Support
The electronic benefit card scheme, a cornerstone of the government’s livelihood support for lower-income tiers, requires careful financial planning for its continuation. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has emphasized the program’s importance in maintaining household purchasing power.
Current projections indicate a potential launch of the scheme’s fifth phase in the month of Azar (beginning November 22, 2024), contingent upon the finalization of its funding allocation within the state budget.
To secure the necessary resources for these support programs, the government is continuing the gradual phasing out of direct subsidies for higher-income tiers, a process mandated by the national budget law. The resources reallocated from this measure are directed towards funding the benefit card system for tiers one to seven.
Process for Subsidy Status Inquiries
For individuals whose subsidies have been suspended, a dedicated online portal has been established to handle inquiries and appeals. The government has specified that all communication regarding subsidy status must be conducted through the hemayat.mcls.gov.ir website, as in-person visits will not be accepted for this process. A 24/7 national hotline (021-6369) and dedicated lines at the Ministry of Cooperatives are also available for guidance.
Key Takeaways:
- October’s direct subsidy payments are scheduled for deposit on October 25 and 30, based on income tier.
- The new phase of the electronic benefit card is on a temporary hold, though existing credits remain valid.
- The fifth phase of the benefit card is anticipated for late November, pending budget finalization.
- A structured, online-only process is in place for individuals to address questions about their subsidy status.