Early in the morning, local residents flocked to register to receive benefits. The "Thai Help Thai Plus" program. Many hope it will stimulate the economy and restore purchasing power to make commerce lively again.
On 25 May 2026 GMT+7, reporters observed that the atmosphere around the registration for the Thai Help Thai Plus program at 6:00 a.m. near the morning market in front of Buriram Hospital was bustling. Both vendors and the public closely awaited the opening of the registration system, worried about missing out, as the government limited the number of beneficiaries to 30 million people.
As registration opened at 6:00 a.m., many people stared intently at their mobile phone screens to quickly access the registration system. Initially, the system experienced delays and intermittent disruptions. Those who could enter the system had to wait in line, while others had to wait for system processing. The app displayed a continuously spinning loading icon, but eventually users were able to access the registration page and claim their benefits.
Ms. Pornpilai Saetan, a mackerel vendor, said she had been eagerly awaiting this registration because she hoped it would stimulate the economy and bring back lively trade after a period of economic slowdown and reduced consumer purchasing power.
She added that she was still unsure how much the program would revive the economy, since current prices and living costs remain high. She said it remains to be seen whether the program will effectively boost spending once launched. However, she appreciated that the government recognized the public’s hardships and introduced measures to assist during this economic slowdown.
Meanwhile, in Phlapphla Chai district, Buriram, locals and elderly residents woke early to bring their phones for their children to help register for the government's Thai Help Thai Plus 60/40 program.
Residents who previously received benefits from the Half-Half Plus program were able to easily claim benefits under the Thai Help Thai Plus 60/40 program. Some immediately received confirmation, while first-time applicants had mixed results—some confirmed right away, others were told their registrations were pending.
Ms. Wimon Bochaprakhon, 39, from Sadao village, said she had previously participated in the Half-Half program, so confirming her identity to receive benefits from the Thai Help Thai Plus 60/40 program was not difficult. She did experience slow internet and suspected system lag due to heavy user traffic.
She hoped that every government would continue offering such assistance programs, believing they are beneficial, especially for villagers and low-income people, as they help alleviate some daily living expenses for families.
At the morning market under Nakhon Luang Bridge in Nakhon Luang district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, people gradually confirmed their benefits via mobile phones starting early. Many elderly citizens unfamiliar with mobile use received help and guidance from their children or neighbors to complete the verification process.
One resident said they had waited since 6:00 a.m. for the Thai Help Thai Plus registration to open but, not being tech-savvy, asked a neighbor for assistance. They found the process straightforward and were able to confirm their benefits quickly, having previously prepared and registered with their bank.