Taiwan is set to distribute a one-time cash payment of NT$10,000, approximately US$315, to eligible residents starting January 26, 2027, contingent upon the approval of the proposed government budget. This initiative, aimed at sharing the economic benefits from the growth of the artificial intelligence industry and increased tax revenue, has been allocated NT$235.7 billion in the 2027 central government budget.
The government has outlined that the funds will be distributed without requiring additional borrowing, adhering to fiscal discipline and applicable legal procedures. Eligible recipients include Taiwanese citizens with household registration, foreign nationals with permanent residency, and certain residents with valid residence permits. Additionally, the program will extend to eligible spouses of Taiwanese citizens from China, Hong Kong, Macau, and other countries, as well as Taiwanese government employees serving overseas and their dependents.
The distribution will offer five payment options: bank-account registration, ATM withdrawals, post office withdrawals, direct deposits, and roster-based payments. A network of 17 financial institutions will facilitate ATM withdrawals. Pre-registration is expected to commence on January 20, 2027, followed by bank deposit registrations on January 25. Payments via pre-registration, direct deposits, and roster-based methods could initiate as early as January 26.
ATM withdrawals will become available from February 15, 2027, and post office withdrawals are slated to start on February 22. The deadline for claiming the payment is set for August 31, 2027. Furthermore, newborns eligible by the end of 2027 will have until January 31, 2028, to receive the payment.
The proposed schedule hinges on the legislature’s approval of the 2027 central government budget by January 5 and presidential promulgation by January 20. These timelines are critical for the timely execution of the payment plan, ensuring that the cash distribution process begins as planned.