TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Executive Yuan (行政院), the island's cabinet, approved a special budget Thursday (Sept. 11) to bolster Taiwan's economic and social resilience through direct cash payments to citizens. Upon approval by the Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament, residents could receive NT$10,000 (around US$333) handouts by late October. The unprecedented economic stimulus package represents a significant government response to strengthen the island's financial stability and support household incomes.
The Ministry of Finance (財政部) estimates approximately 23.56 million people will qualify for this unprecedented cash distribution program across Taiwan. The ministry plans to implement five distinct distribution methods to ensure comprehensive coverage: direct deposit, registration for deposit, ATM cash withdrawal, post office collection, and roster distribution. These multiple channels aim to accommodate diverse citizen preferences and accessibility needs throughout the island's urban and rural areas.
Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) instructed all government ministries to initiate cash distribution within one month after the special budget announcement. A comprehensive cross-ministerial task force has been established, comprising the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Digital Affairs (數位發展部), Financial Supervisory Commission (金融監督管理委員會), Ministry of Transportation and Communication (交通部), and Executive Yuan's Anti-Fraud Command Center (行政院打擊詐欺指揮中心). The collaborative effort aims to ensure smooth distribution while combating potential fraudulent activities targeting citizens.
The Ministry of Finance urged citizens to remain vigilant against misinformation campaigns before the official program announcement. Citizens should report suspicious websites or fraudulent messages by dialing the 165 anti-fraud hotline, a government-operated service designed to combat financial scams. Detailed information regarding distribution specifics and eligibility requirements will be announced within one month after the budget's official publication. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30)