Argentina social benefits: AUH increases and credit criticisms

In Argentina, the Asignación Universal por Hijo (AUH) will see a 2.11% increase in September 2026, based on July inflation rates. The gross amount per child will rise to approximately $154,016, though ANSES retains 20% of the monthly payment, which families can reclaim by presenting the AUH Libreta to prove health and education compliance.

Alongside the AUH, the Tarjeta Alimentar benefit remains unchanged, providing varying amounts based on the number of children in a household. For example, families with one child receive $72,250, while those with three or more receive $149,425.

Social leaders, including Silvia Saravia of Libres del Sur, have criticized digital wallets like Mercado Pago for offering high-interest loans—up to 400% or 500% annually—to AUH beneficiaries, alleging that these services facilitate the direct deduction of social benefits to cover debts. In response, legislators have proposed a bill to limit interest rates on such credits.

Separately, a study by the Observatorio de la Deuda Social Argentina (ODSA-UCA) highlights significant socioeconomic disparities among Argentine youth, noting that only 14.2% of those aged 18 to 25 have access to formal, registered employment. Additionally, ANSES offers a one-time Marriage Allowance (Asignación por Matrimonio) for registered workers and other eligible groups, with payments for August 2026 marriages set at $131,652.