Families across Italy are watching closely as the expected payments of the ‘assegno unico’, the universal child allowance, roll out this February. The upcoming payment dates run from February 17 to 19 for those who have received the benefit before and have no changes affecting their payments. For beneficiaries who have recently submitted updated income declarations (ISEE) or are receiving the allowance for the first time, payments are likely to be sent by the end of the month, according to information from INPS (the National Institute of Social Security).
The INPS has traditionally issued these payments around mid-month, with February marking the second payment installment of 2025. Those whose income situation has not fluctuated compared to the previous months can expect to see funds deposited between the 17th and 19th. Historically, these dates align with the timeframe set for earlier payments.
For families needing to provide updated income information, there’s urgency surrounding the February 28 deadline. To avoid reductions to the benefit amount, families must submit their updated single substitute declaration (Dsu) by this date. Failure to do so will result in the INPS issuing the minimum amount starting March 1, 2025, which is approximately 57 euros.
“The February payment is particularly significant because it is the last to use the 2024 income data,” said INPS representatives, stressing the importance of proactive communication to prevent automatic reductions. Families needing to catch up on missed payments for the months of January and February may do so by ensuring their Dsu is updated by June 30, which is the final date to apply for back payments.
This year, unlike the previous one, INPS has not released its detailed monthly payments calendar. Last February, beneficiaries had the luxury of precise dates aligning with their expected payments. The current lack of communication has left many families questioning when they will receive their funds.
“It’s frustrating,” said Anna, a mother of three, during a recent community meeting. “With inflation affecting our budgets, knowing when we’ll get our payments is really important for planning.” Many families find themselves checking their bank accounts daily, hoping for the deposits to materialize.
For 2025, the amounts for the ‘assegno unico’ have been adjusted for inflation, with increases of approximately 0.8%. The basic amount will now reflect these changes, ranging from 57.50 euros for families reporting higher income to 201 euros for those with qualifying ISEE levels of up to 17,227.33 euros.
Families with very young children can benefit more significantly, as their allowance is increased by 50% for the first year of life. Similarly, families with three or more children aged between one and three years old will also see their benefits raised by 50%. For families with four or more minors, there is also the prospect of a fixed increase of 150 euros per month from INPS.
Beneficiaries should also prepare for potential retroactive payments. “If all documentation is accurately submitted on time, families could receive adjustments retroactively for January when they receive their March payment.” INPS officials reiterated the importance of timely updates, noting how this has become even more pressing amid rising living costs.
Final reminders for families include: submit the Dsu by February 28 to avoid any disruptions. Families should also keep their lines of communication open with the INPS through official channels to receive any potential updates on their cases.
For families worried about future payments, the new income thresholds require vigilance. For some, the differential between maintaining the current allowance and dropping to the minimum standard hinges solely on their ability to track income declarations, highlighting the complexity many face amid fluctuated financial situations.
“We understand the anxiety this can cause and we strive to make the process smoother for families,” INPS stressed, encouraging families to stay informed.
While many families are set to receive payments within the next week, the broader conversation continues around the future stability and predictability of these allowances. With the recent adjustments and the need for proactive financial management, the onus remains firmly on families to keep their income information updated regularly for the best outcomes.