Before the end of 2022, the government announced a set of anti-inflation steps designed to lighten the strain on household budgets, especially for the most vulnerable families. The plan included a reduction in value-added tax on essential goods, cutting VAT from 4% to 0% for basic needs and trimming the rate from 10% to 5% on items like oil and pasta. In parallel, a package of support measures was outlined for farmers to help offset higher fertilizer costs, with the aim of keeping fresh fruit and vegetable prices stable for consumers.
Regarding shopping cart assistance, the government proposed a 200 euro allowance intended to help families purchase groceries in supermarkets.
Who can qualify for this assistance?
Eligible households are those with an annual family income below 27,000 euros. In practical terms, the aid is awarded per household, not per individual member.
Another eligibility criterion is that the total assets of these families must not exceed 75,000 euros. The value of their habitual residence is not counted in this assessment.
Additionally, households will not receive this aid if they already collect some other form of benefit, such as a pension or the Minimum Vital Income (IMV).
The government estimates that roughly 4.2 million households could benefit from the 200 euro support. In Alicante province, for example, data from the tax authority show about 594,026 workers earning under 27,000 euros per year. While there is no precise figure on how many families will actually receive benefits, this provides a reasonable basis for the calculation. It is important to note that all applicants must still meet the remaining requirements before any decision is made.
Transitively, the set of anti-inflation measures aims to cushion the impact on the weekly grocery bill. Through tax relief and targeted payments, families can experience relief on essential purchases while the broader economy adjusts to higher price pressures. Consumers should expect these policies to be one element of a wider strategy to stabilize household budgets during periods of price volatility.
When can you request 200 Euro assistance?
The window to request the 200 euro check is scheduled to open on February 15 and will run through March 31. Applicants should prepare to meet the established eligibility criteria and to provide any documentation required by the tax authorities during the application process.
How to request 200 Euro assistance?
Although precise procedural details were not finalized at the moment, indications point to the request being submitted through the Tax Office. Each case will be reviewed by the public institution, which will verify whether the applicant qualifies for the aid. If approved, the amount will be issued as a single payment directly into the applicant’s bank account.