Turkey develops family support system to supplement low incomes

Turkey is developing a new social support model known as the Income Complementary Family Support System (GETAD), colloquially referred to as the ‘citizenship salary’. The program aims to support households whose income falls below a specific threshold, such as the poverty line or a determined minimum living standard.

Under the proposed system, the goal is to ensure every family has an income at least equivalent to the minimum wage. If a household's income is insufficient, the GETAD system will provide the necessary supplement. The support is designed to be family-based, with payment amounts likely determined by regional economic conditions, household income, the number of children under 17, and the presence of elderly or disabled members.

Pilot studies and needs analyses are being conducted throughout 2026 across various provinces and districts. Following these evaluations, the system is planned to be rolled out nationwide in 2027. Legislative work is reportedly nearing completion, with the proposal expected to be brought before the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in the coming months. Notably, those receiving this specific support may be ineligible for other income-based social assistance programs.