Mexico's Secretary of Welfare is advancing the registration and payment strategy for its 2025 Bienestar pension program, which is aimed at supporting vulnerable groups, including adults over 65, persons with disabilities, and women.
This year's registration has specific deadlines, based on the first initial of the last name, and is set to conclude on February 28, 2025. The registration process operates through welfare modules across the country, and applicants are required to present several documents, including official identification, birth certificates, and CURP numbers.
The government aims to assist over 15 million individuals across multiple social programs, with beneficiaries of the Bienestar pension for adults receiving 12,400 pesos for the combined months of March-April and May-June during March. This double payment is necessary due to the impending electoral period on June 1, 2025, during which social support distributions are paused.
For states like Durango and Veracruz, where elections will take place, the advance payments are intended to comply with regulations from the National Electoral Institute (INE), which typically halts social aid during election periods.
Registration hours for the Bienestar programs run Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Potential beneficiaries can consult the official government website to locate their nearest module.
What documents are required for registration? Applicants need to present valid identification (such as voter ID or passport), CURP (recent print), and proof of residence. For individuals with disabilities, certification from public health institutions is also necessary. It's recommended to have all documentation ready to facilitate the registration process.
The government has confirmed significant investments, totaling 86 billion pesos for welfare programs, affirming its commitment to social support under the current administration and as part of the broader transformational efforts initiated by President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Maria López, 67, from Veracruz, shared her thoughts: "This pension is lifeline. It's not just about money; it's about feeling supported by our government. I’m thankful for it."
The Secretary of Welfare, Ariadna Montiel, emphasized the need for this program, stating, "Our commitment is to guarantee dignified living conditions to Mexico's most vulnerable populations."
With elections looming, adult beneficiaries, particularly those living in the impacted states, will have their payments adjusted accordingly to avoid disruption during the electoral process.
The registration period also marks the beginning of outreach for those who might have missed the chance to sign up, with future registration waves planned throughout the year. This ensures continued access to benefits promised by the Bienestar initiative.
Overall, the strategy is not just about disbursing payments, but also about reinforcing the social safety net for vulnerable groups during trying times.