Vietnam reviews Decree 178 benefit payments following audit violations

Following reports from the State Audit Office regarding numerous violations in the implementation of Government Decree 178, the Ministry of Home Affairs has ordered ministries and local authorities to review all cases of employees who have resigned or received benefits under Decree 178/2024 and Decree 67/2025.

Experts suggest that while errors must be addressed, authorities should distinguish between different types of mistakes to avoid treating all cases identically. Dr. Bui Sy Loi, former Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly's Committee for Social Affairs, emphasized that while incorrect payments—such as wrong amounts, incorrect recipients, or improper timeframes—must be adjusted and recovered, the process should be handled carefully to maintain social stability.

Public concern has centered on the practicalities of recovering funds, particularly in cases where recipients have already spent the money. Suggestions from the public include clarifying the responsibility of those who approved the incorrect payments and determining whether funds can be recovered through methods such as gradual pension deductions.