TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Executive Yuan (行政院) announced a nationwide cash distribution of NT$10,000, allowing registrations from Nov. 5, with disbursements starting Nov. 12. However, the policy's age restriction of 13 years and older sparked public discontent. The Ministry of Digital Affairs (數發部) defended this decision as a fraud prevention measure, emphasizing respect for teenagers' financial autonomy.
The Kuomintang (國民黨) caucus criticized the policy, citing insufficient supporting measures that left citizens vulnerable to fraud. They urged the government to establish "distribution assistance centers" and a "rapid account dispute resolution team." Meanwhile, Democratic Progressive Party (民主進步黨) caucus whip Chung Chia-pin (鍾佳濱) called for expedited implementation of supporting measures and careful consideration of public feedback.
To aid citizens in identifying scams, the Ministry of Finance (財政部) launched a fraud prevention Q&A on its website. The National Police Agency (警政署) warned of two prevalent scams: fraudsters impersonating officials to claim cash on behalf of individuals and phishing attempts through fake official websites. They advised the public to stay vigilant and avoid falling for tactics that could turn cash collection into remittance.
The Ministry of Finance outlined five official collection channels, reminding citizens to verify the official website, 10000.gov.tw. Under the "universal benefit" principle, eligible individuals, including foreign spouses, Hong Kong and Macau residents, and permanent foreign residents, can receive the cash. Specific groups, including labor insurance and national pension recipients, will automatically receive payments starting Nov. 12.