More money for pensioners, public assistance from January 1

THE SOCIAL Development Ministry has announced that from January 1 the value of several of its social welfare payments will increase as announced in the 2018/2019 national budget.

The ministry pointed out the increases in a release Monday.

"These changes will see an overall improvement in the standard of living for those who face challenges in meeting basic economic requirements for themselves and their families."

For senior citizens their pensions will now be calculated based on the new schedule of payments as follows:

- those within the income band not exceeding $2,500 will now receive a pension rate of $3,500

- income exceeding $2,500 but not exceeding $3,500 will now receive $2,500

- income exceeding $3,500 but not exceeding $4,500 will now receive $1,500

- and income exceeding $4,500 but not exceeding $5,500 will now receive $500

For people in receipt of public assistance the amount payable has increased as follows:

- one person who received the rate of $1,150 will now receive the new rate of $1,300

- two people who received $1,400 will now receive $1,550

- three people who received $1,600 will now receive $1,750

- and four or more people who received $1,750 will now receive $1,900

For households receiving food support, the new rates are as follows:

- families of one to three people who received $410 will now receive a rate of $510

- families of four to five people who received $550 will now receive $650

- families of six or more people who received $700 will now receive $800

The ministry said there was also good news for people with a disability as the disability assistance grant for children under 18 years "will soon be introduced."

Under the grant children will receive $1,500 per month. The ministry added the disability assistance grant for people 18 years and over will be increased from $1800 to $2,000 effective January 2019 and this payment will commence in February 2019.

The ministry advised those seeking further information to contact social welfare district offices closest to where they reside or call toll free at 800-1MSD.