Child Benefit A21: Payments via Prepaid Card Starting End of May

In less than three months, payments for the Child Benefit (A21) will begin through a prepaid card. According to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, as of the end of next May, the new payment method will be implemented specifically for the child benefit. He highlighted the useful guide posted on the Ministry of Social Cohesion and Family’s website, which explains the new payment process for 19 welfare benefits, allowances, and financial aids from DYPA and OAED. The new procedure starts on March 15 and brings significant changes to how beneficiaries are paid. Payments will now be made through a special prepaid card issued by Payment Service Providers—either one of the five major banks or the three cooperative banks where the beneficiary already has an account. This simplifies and modernizes the process, making it easier and more transparent. Each beneficiary will have a unique prepaid card for all social benefits they qualify for. Fifty percent of the amount can be withdrawn in cash, while the remaining balance must be spent exclusively using the prepaid card. The card can only be used in Greece and within the European Union for any product or service purchases (excluding transactions involving weapons and gambling). An exception is made for individuals with 80% or higher visual impairment, who will continue to receive their benefits directly into their bank accounts, provided they have a valid medical opinion from a Health Committee.