Chile and Peru announce increases to elderly social assistance programs

Chile and Peru have announced updates to social assistance programs for elderly citizens.

In Chile, the Universal Guaranteed Pension (PGU) is set to increase in September. Beneficiaries currently receiving $231,732 will see their monthly payments rise to $250,275. This specific adjustment applies to individuals aged 75 and older. Further increases are scheduled for 2027, including a February adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and a broader expansion in September 2027 that will allow those aged 65 and older to access the maximum PGU amount.

In Peru, President Keiko Fujimori announced a significant increase for the Pensión 65 program. The bi-monthly subsidy for elderly citizens living in extreme poverty will double from S/ 350 to S/ 700. This measure is part of a broader state policy titled ‘Cuidando la experiencia’, which aims to provide comprehensive protection for older adults, including health, economic security, and social integration.