Argentina Unveils Major Changes to Bono Madre and AUH Programs for May 2024

The Argentine government has announced significant modifications to its social welfare programs, including the Bono Madre and Asignación Universal por Hijo (AUH), which will come into effect in May 2024. The changes are designed to provide increased support to eligible beneficiaries, focusing on mothers and families with young children.

Why this matters: These changes to the Bono Madre and AUH programs demonstrate the Argentine government's commitment to addressing poverty and inequality, which are critical issues in the country. By increasing support for vulnerable populations, the government aims to mitigate the effects of economic challenges and promote a more equitable society.

Among the key changes is a 9% increase in the Tarjeta Alimentar, a food card program aimed at assisting specific groups. Moreover, the income limit to access AUH will be increased from $202,800 in April to $234,000 in May 2024, in line with the new Salario Mínimo, Vital y Móvil (SMVM) of $234,000.

Although there will not be an exclusive AUH bonus, the government has introduced an additional payment for AUH recipients with children under 3 years old through the Programa Leche del Plan 1000 Días. This program has experienced a significant 500% increase, from $3,800 to $19,818 per child, reflecting the government's dedication to supporting early childhood development.

Starting May 9, 2024, AUH recipients can access their benefits according to the termination of their document. The complete payment schedule for May 2024 can be found on the Anses website (anses.gob.ar) or through the Mi Anses app, using their CUIL and Clave de la Seguridad Social.

Alongside the changes in AUH, the government has also announced a bonus of 70,000 pesos for eligible recipients of the Universal Pension for the Elderly (PUAM) and Non-Contributory Pensions (PNC) from ANSES. This bonus will be paid out in May 2024, alongside the regular pension and retirement benefit increases linked to the Consumer Price Index (IPC) announced by INDEC.

However, not all PNC recipients from ANSES will be eligible for the bonus. The resolution applies only to retirees and pensioners who receive the minimum pension. The government stated, "The economic assistance will be equal to the amount necessary to reach the top of 260,141.60 pesos." PNC recipients who exceed this amount will not receive the bonus, while those who receive more than the minimum pension will see a percentage increase in their benefits up to the top amount.

As of May 2024, the payment dates for PNC from ANSES will shift from the first business day to the sixth business day of the month. The payment schedule for May 2024 is as follows: documents ending in 0 and 1 on May 9, 2 and 3 on May 10, 4 and 5 on May 13, 6 and 7 on May 14, and 8 and 9 on May 15.

Citizens are encouraged to visit the Anses Consultorio on Crónica HD for further information on AUH refuerzos, new bonuses for retirees, and the latest benefits. The changes in the Bono Madre program and related social welfare initiatives showcase the Argentine government's continued commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring their financial well-being amidst economic challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Argentina's social welfare programs, including Bono Madre and AUH, will see significant changes in May 2024.
• Tarjeta Alimentar food card program will increase by 9%.
• AUH income limit will increase to $234,000, in line with the new minimum wage.
• AUH recipients with children under 3 will receive an additional payment through the Programa Leche del Plan 1000 Días.
• Eligible PUAM and PNC recipients will receive a 70,000-peso bonus in May 2024.