Thailand Warns of Tax Deduction Abuse for Welfare Card Applicants

The second day of verification for existing welfare cardholders begins, with over 13 million people needing to confirm their identity to ensure they are genuinely in need.

A new condition highlights concerns about children claiming tax deductions using their parents' names without providing actual support, potentially affecting welfare eligibility.

Scenes from Krungthai Bank branches in Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima, show large numbers of elderly and vulnerable individuals verifying their welfare cards under new regulations.

A farmer shares their struggles with drought and low yields, emphasizing the critical importance of the welfare card for survival and urging continued government support.

In Phitsanulok, village leaders and local authorities assist individuals who missed out on previous welfare card registrations, helping them sign up at a local coordination center.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance explains the new criteria for welfare card eligibility, emphasizing the need to target aid to the truly needy and those without support.

The government outlines the appeal process for those who believe they were unfairly disqualified, particularly concerning the tax deduction rule, with a specific window for appeals.

The Ministry of Finance has instructed the Revenue Department to compile data on tax deductions for dependents to assess the impact of the new criteria, expecting a minimal number of exclusions.

Progress on the 'Thai Chana Plus' economic stimulus program is reported, showing active participation and significant spending, with over 4 million slots still available.

Merchants report a surge in sales since June 1st due to the 'Thai Chana Plus' program, with customers maximizing their benefits and expressing a desire for continued economic stimulus.

The Ministry of Finance reports over 11.4 billion baht in spending for the 'Thai Chana Plus' program, involving millions of users and highlighting its role in boosting the economy amid high living costs.

Academics and the Thai Retailers Association propose expanding the 'Thai Chana Plus' program to include modern trade and corporate retailers to enhance economic circulation and tax revenue.