Turkey develops new Income Complementary Family Support Model

Turkey is preparing a new social support system officially named the ‘Income Complementary Family Support Model,’ colloquially referred to as the ‘citizenship salary.’ The model aims to bring families up to a specific income level and is being developed in coordination with the Presidency of Strategy and Budget.

Contrary to rumors regarding the cancellation of existing social aid, the Ministry of Family and Social Services has confirmed that current programs, including SED (Social and Economic Support) payments, elderly pensions, and disability benefits, are continuing. In July, the ministry reported significant disbursements, including 2.117 billion lira in SED payments and over 8.1 billion lira for elderly and disability pensions. Some aid amounts have also seen increases, such as Home Care Assistance rising to 15,755 lira.

Experts suggest a pilot implementation of the new model could begin in October 2026, with a broader rollout expected in the first half of 2027. The system is expected to function through income testing via e-Devlet, with priority potentially given to households with children, elderly members, or individuals with disabilities. The model is intended to work in coordination with existing social assistance rather than replacing it entirely.