Iran suspends disability benefits amid economic crisis

Iran's State Welfare Organization stopped livelihood allowances for disabled citizens in June, citing a budget shortfall. The suspension affects an estimated 13,000 to 30,000 people who rely on these payments for essential living expenses, including caregiver and hygiene subsidies. The cuts come as inflation soars, healthcare costs rise sharply, oil revenue delays and currency devaluation strain the national budget.

Disabled Iranians report severe hardship: payments for nursing allowances and essential medical supplies have been delayed, while prices for items such as catheters, dressings and medications have doubled or tripled. Individuals like Hossein, whose allowance was cut, and Raheleh, who receives only enough monthly support for a week of supplies, describe the abrupt loss of income as pushing them into deeper poverty.

The policy shift also fuels political tension. Analysts note that the payment halt could increase public discontent and heighten speculation about President Masoud Pezeshkian’s tenure, with prediction markets suggesting a possible departure by year‑end.