Bangkok: Welfare card holders are set to retain their benefits until the end of September, pending an appeals process. The Ministry of Finance is preparing to crack down on individuals who have misused benefits and those operating fraudulent accounts.
According to Thai News Agency, Pharadon has confirmed that welfare card holders will continue to receive benefits until the appeals process concludes. The Ministry of Finance is actively working to address fraudulent claims and accounts. The government remains committed to allocating funds for genuinely poor individuals, with no specific target set for the number of eligible recipients.
Mr. Paradorn Prisnanantakul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, disclosed that the Ministry of Finance plans to propose adjustments to the state welfare card conditions to the Cabinet. These adjustments include criteria related to vehicle ownership and the inclusion of students in informal education systems. The conditions will stay in effect until the appeals process is finalized. He noted that 80% of the newly screened group already benefits from the "Thailand Across Thailand Plus 60:40" project.
Regarding the number of recipients if criteria are reviewed, Mr. Paradorn stated that the final figure is unknown and dependent on the appeal results. He emphasized the government's commitment to supporting those who are truly entitled to the welfare card. The Ministry of Finance is poised to investigate individuals misusing welfare benefits through fraudulent means, such as using others' names for company directorships or tax deductions.
Mr. Paradorn addressed questions about the potential number of eligible recipients, indicating no specific target exists and that it hinges on appeal outcomes. He reiterated the Prime Minister's stance that the number of recipients and the amount of money involved are not primary concerns. The government is prepared to allocate funds to those genuinely affected. The review was initiated due to complaints regarding eligibility and receipt of benefits, prompting a complete re-survey following an increase of 2.3 million people.
When questioned about disclosing names of those who fraudulently claimed benefits, Mr. Paradorn highlighted that the appeals process is still active. The Ministry of Finance plans further investigations, including retrospective tax audits for those who used names for tax deductions.
Addressing criticisms of the government's review process, Mr. Paradorn clarified that this is an update of information, citing outdated data as a systemic issue. He viewed this as an opportunity to reassess national information systems.