Greece will begin distributing roughly €600 million in financial support this week, offering payments to 2.4 million citizens as part of a wider relief package aimed at easing the burden of inflation, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced.
By Yiorgos Pappous
Starting Monday more than 1.4 million low-income pensioners, uninsured elderly citizens, and people with disabilities will receive a permanent €250 payment.
Eligible couples who both meet the income criteria will automatically receive €500.
The payment applies to recipients over 65 with an annual income of up to €14,000 for single households or €26,000 for couples.
Property value limits are set at €200,000 for singles and €300,000 for couples. Age limits do not apply to disabled retirees.
On Nov. 28, approximately 1 million households will also receive a rent refund for 2024 of up to €800, plus €50 for each dependent child.
The refund covers primary or student housing and will now be paid annually in November without requiring an application.
The measures are part of a larger €2.5 billion government plan designed to reach more than five million people through wage increases, reduced payroll burdens, and pension adjustments.
Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis said the support reflects the government’s commitment to those most affected by housing and food costs.
"From tomorrow, thousands of our fellow citizens will see money in their accounts," Mr. Pierrakakis said. "Our economy is growing, and that growth must reach every home. We want a Greece that leaves no one behind."
The government faces continued public pressure over rising prices despite strong economic indicators, with the coming months serving as a test of whether these measures can sufficiently ease household strain.