Taipei to increase Senior Citizen's Day cash gift for those aged 85-98

Taipei, July 31 (CNA) Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) announced Thursday that the Senior Citizens' Day cash gift will be increased to NT$3,000 (US$100) from NT$1,500 for those aged 85-98 starting in 2025, benefiting about 60,000 people.

Those eligible for the gift include anyone aged 65 and above who has had household-registration in Taipei since before July 29, 2025, according to the website of Taipei City Government's Department of Social Welfare. Seniors aged 99 and above receive NT$10,000.

Recipients can receive the gift by tapping their Senior Card or Charity Card at any Taipei Metro EasyCard top-up machine, or at 7-Eleven, Family Mart, Hi-Life and Ok Mart stores or Simple Mart supermarkets from Sept. 1-30.

Foreign nationals aged 65 and above are also eligible for a Senior Card if they have an Alien Permanent Resident Certificate and are resident in Taipei, according to the department's website.

Recipients can also apply before Oct. 9 to have the gift deposited directly into their bank accounts, or collect it in person at locations designated by government district offices starting Nov. 12.

In addition, those who collect the cash gift using the Senior or Charity Card will be automatically included in a Taipei City lottery, with the grand prize being NT$8,888, Chiang said.

"The cash gift goes beyond simply providing social welfare," Chiang said at a press conference Thursday.

He also highlighted the importance of respecting the contributions made by seniors over the years, saying that many use the cash gift for personal treats or spend it on their grandchildren, thereby promoting familial bonds.

In a bid to improve the well-being of seniors, Chiang also mentioned plans to provide full subsidies covering the shingles vaccine for those aged 65 and above in low and medium income households.