In this article, the details of a family support initiative are explained, including how it helps households with fewer resources and the steps required to obtain a wallet card.
What is a wallet card?
The wallet card represents a subsidy aimed at aid to poor families with children in Spain. It draws €100 million from the European Social Fund Plus. Of that total, €95.5 million is designated for purchasing food, while €4.7 million covers technical costs associated with implementing the program.
The wallet card replaces the old food bag distribution system. Its goal is to reduce hunger queues and preserve dignity for families in need. Unlike food carts, the wallet card allows the purchase of fresh produce and other essential items, with restrictions on certain products such as alcoholic beverages and cosmetics.
This is how the wallet card operates, as outlined by the Ministry of Social Rights and with support from the Spanish Red Cross during the initial launch.
Requirements to request a wallet card
The wallet card targets households with income below 40% of the Spanish median income and with dependent children who are minors. Applicants do not need to be a parent to qualify; uncles, grandparents, or any adult responsible for minors may be eligible. Each autonomous community Social Services agency is responsible for identifying families that meet these criteria to receive the assistance.
How much money will be on the wallet card?
The monthly amount on a wallet card varies by family size. The breakdown is as follows, based on the number of family members:
- One adult and one minor: 130 euros per month.
- One adult with two minors, or two adults with one minor: 160 euros per month.
- Two adults with two minors: 190 euros per month.
- Five or more members: up to 220 euros per month.
These figures mark a notable increase from the previous system, which delivered roughly 6 euros per person per month under the food distribution model.
How long does a wallet card last?
Each eligible family can receive support for up to one year. Refill frequency is determined by the autonomous community and can be monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly according to local policy.
The wallet card program is managed from May through December as the initial rollout phase, after which autonomous communities assume ongoing responsibility for administration and delivery, with the Spanish Red Cross providing crucial support at launch.
Is the wallet card compatible with other aids?
The wallet card does not replace other poverty alleviation programs, actions, or funding lines. It complements broader poverty relief efforts and contributes to more effective and dignified assistance, recognizing that no single measure can meet all the needs of affected families.
All information in this summary is provided for general awareness and planning purposes. For official guidance and updates, readers should refer to the corresponding social services authorities in their autonomous community.
Note: The descriptions above reflect the implementation framework announced by the Ministry of Social Rights with the support of partner organizations. For further details on eligibility and distribution timelines, see the official program notices issued by regional social services. [Citation: Ministry of Social Rights, 2025]