The Vietnamese government recently enacted Decree No. 335/2026, which revises social assistance policies, raising the standard monthly support amount from 500,000 VND to 540,000 VND. This new rate will take effect from July 1, 2026.

Under the new decree, the monthly social assistance is calculated based on a coefficient depending on the specific group of beneficiaries. For instance, children under four years old who are eligible for social protection will receive a coefficient of 2.5, amounting to 1.35 million VND per month. Children aged four and above in this category will receive 810,000 VND per month, calculated with a coefficient of 1.5.

Individuals with severe disabilities will receive 1.08 million VND per month, while those with severe disabilities who are also elderly or children will receive 1.35 million VND. Elderly individuals from poor households without caregivers will receive a coefficient of 1.5 if they are between 60 and 75 years old and a coefficient of 2 if they are over 75.

The decree also stipulates that those receiving social assistance who are enrolled in educational programs from preschool to university will benefit from educational support policies as outlined in the regulations.

According to the Ministry of Health, approximately 4.5 million people are expected to benefit from these social assistance and pension programs in 2025. This increase in monthly allowances is projected to cost the state budget an additional 304 billion VND each month, totaling about 1.824 trillion VND for the year 2026, starting from July 1.

Experts believe that adjusting social welfare policies is necessary to mitigate the impact of inflation and maintain purchasing power for low-income groups. Although the increase may not significantly transform the financial situation for the lowest income earners, it still represents a meaningful support for those relying on social welfare.