According to the draft decree guiding the implementation of certain provisions of the Social Insurance Law regarding social pensions, elderly citizens in Vietnam will receive a fixed monthly social pension benefit if they meet specific criteria. This policy not only carries significant humanitarian value but also contributes to ensuring social security for vulnerable groups.
Eligibility for Social Pension Benefits
To be eligible for social pension benefits, Vietnamese citizens must satisfy the following conditions:
- Aged 75 or older, not receiving any other monthly pension or social insurance benefits (except in special cases as specified by the government).
- Provide a formal application for social pension benefits according to the prescribed template.
For individuals from households classified as poor or near-poor, the age requirement is reduced to between 70 and 75 years old. This provision aims to provide timely support to those in difficult circumstances during their later years.
Eligibility for Social Pension Benefits
Illustration: Process of applying for social pension benefits.
Amount of Benefits and Number of Beneficiaries
The Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs has proposed a monthly social pension benefit of 500,000 VND per person. With this policy, it is estimated that approximately 1.5 million people aged between 75 and 80 will be eligible for social pension benefits under the Social Insurance Law. The draft is expected to take effect from July 1st.
Start Date for Receiving Benefits
The start date for receiving monthly social pension benefits is determined as follows:
- Individuals who turn 75 before July 1st: Will begin receiving benefits from July 1st.
- Individuals who turn 75 after July 1st: Will start receiving benefits from the day they turn 75.
For individuals from poor or near-poor households:
- Individuals who turn 70 before July 1st: Will begin receiving benefits from July 1st.
- Individuals who turn 70 after July 1st: Will start receiving benefits from the day they turn 70.
Procedure and Formalities
The process of applying, adjusting, or discontinuing social pension benefits follows the regulations set out in Decree No. 20/2021/ND-CP. Notable changes include replacing the term “monthly social assistance” with “monthly social pension benefits.”
Beneficiaries need to prepare a formal application according to the template issued alongside this decree. Additionally, requests for funeral cost support will be processed through integrated public services as stipulated in Decree No. 63/2024/ND-CP.
Significance and Impact of the Policy
The social pension policy is not only a crucial financial support for elderly citizens without a pension but also underscores the state’s responsibility in caring for its citizens’ livelihoods. It serves as a foundation for the sustainable development of the social security system in Vietnam.
These improvements in regulations and procedures promise to make it easier for citizens to access their rightful benefits. For more details, readers can refer directly to the Draft Decree.
With the information provided above, we hope this article helps you better understand the eligibility, procedures, and significance of the social pension policy. Please share this article to help others learn about and claim their rights!
