2.76m seek welfare card eligibility review

Approximately 2.76 million people who failed to qualify for the 2026 state welfare card scheme have appealed for a review of their eligibility, the Finance Ministry announced. The appeals, filed on July 17 and 18, account for about 30% of the applicants who did not pass the eligibility screening. Another 6.55 million unsuccessful applicants can still submit appeals until July 31. Of the 18.8 million people who applied for the 2026 programme, only 9.5 million qualified, down from 13.2 million beneficiaries under the previous scheme. The most common reason for disqualification was ownership of a vehicle that exceeded the programme's eligibility criteria, affecting about 1.45 million applicants. Another 668,000 were rejected because their combined outstanding debts exceeded 100,000 baht. Others were disqualified because they had annual income or financial transfers above 100,000 baht, owned property exceeding the permitted limit, held deposits of more than 100,000 baht, or possessed credit cards. Applicants who believe the screening results do not reflect their actual circumstances can appeal through the programme's website, the Paotang and Tang Rat applications, or participating state-owned banks. They are also advised to update their personal information with government agencies. Those whose appeals are successful and who complete electronic identity verification will receive benefits from October. Existing welfare cardholders who have confirmed their eligibility can continue using their benefits from Aug 1. The ministry previously said it had revised the registration process and screening criteria to ensure assistance reaches those most in need. The state welfare card programme has an annual budget of about 45 billion baht.