The Ministry of Health has put forward a proposal to increase the standard social assistance benefit from 500,000 VND to 540,000 VND per month. This proposal comes in response to requests from constituents in Phu Tho province, who highlighted that the current assistance levels are insufficient compared to the average living costs.

For elderly individuals living alone and those with severe disabilities, the current assistance is not only used for daily living expenses but also for specific needs such as medication, healthcare, and nutrition. Therefore, there is a strong call for the policy to be revised to reflect the increase in the basic salary and to expand the number of individuals eligible for social care and support.

Since 2007, the government has adjusted the social assistance standard five times. The increases have been as follows:

• 2007: 120,000 VND/month
• 2010: 180,000 VND/month
• 2013: 270,000 VND/month
• 2021: 360,000 VND/month
• 2024: 500,000 VND/month

With the proposed increase to 540,000 VND, this would mark an 8% rise from the current standard. If approved, it will be the next adjustment following the implementation of the 500,000 VND standard in 2024.

The Ministry of Health has emphasized that any adjustments must consider various factors, including budgetary constraints, economic growth rates, consumer price indices, and the need to ensure social security in different phases.