Overview of the Shopping Cart Bonus in Valencia
Recently launched by the Generalitat, this program aims to help Valencian families cope with rising food prices. It offers a 90 euro prepaid wallet card per eligible person, which can be activated for four months and used to purchase food across participating businesses in the Valencia Community. The 90 Euro Shopping Cart Bonus can be claimed through an official process that was introduced with a straightforward, simplified application path.
Where to Process the Benefit
Applicants must first request an appointment. Once the appointment is arranged, the formal request can be completed in person at any designated office, within a few days or hours depending on availability. The process can also be conducted remotely via mail, telegrams, or telematic channels, and requires an electronic certificate and an electronic signature.
During the application, the applicant can specify how they want to receive the card: a physical card that is mailed to the address provided, or a virtual card that can be downloaded to a mobile device using NFC technology. After the beneficiary is approved, they will receive a notification by email and will obtain the Bono Cesta prepaid card from that point forward.
Photo credits: central market of La Vila. (Attribution: david revenge)
Depending on the chosen card type, the applicant will receive either a virtual card by email or a physical card by post.
Activation
Once the card arrives, activation is required. For physical cards, the letter accompanying the card explains the activation steps. Virtual cards arrive by email with activation instructions, enabling immediate use of the Bono Cesta prepaid card once activated.
Inquiries are supported by a public helpline, available Monday through Friday during business hours, with additional contact options via email. (Fuente: Generalitat Valenciana)
Who Benefits
The program targets residents and fiscal domiciles within the Valencia Community whose family income falls under 21,000 euros per year. It also includes individuals who were self-employed in 2021 or 2022, those who received unemployment benefits or subsidies, and recipients of the Minimum Vital Income or Valencia Participation Income.
In collaboration with major food distributors and the local small-business sector, the Generalitat has allocated funding to support NGOs and non-profit associations focused on food purchases. This step enhances access to groceries for households in need and strengthens local charitable efforts.
With these criteria, the initiative could reach a significant number of beneficiaries, delivering substantial economic impact. Projections estimate that hundreds of thousands could benefit, contributing millions of euros to the regional economy when fully utilized. (Fuente: Generalitat Valenciana)