In Nakhon Ratchasima, large numbers of people lined up at Krungthai Bank service points to resolve issues with the "Pao Tang" app failing facial scans and identity verification, in hopes of preparing to register for the "Thai Help Thai Plus" program to receive 4,000 baht in assistance.
At 10:00 a.m. on 24 May 2026, reporters observed a lively atmosphere at Krungthai Bank’s service point inside The Mall Nakhon Ratchasima in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district. Many people queued to verify their identity and update data in the "Pao Tang" app to prepare for registering in the government’s "Thai Help Thai Plus" program, which opens for registration on 25 May 2026 via Krungthai Bank’s "Pao Tang" app.
Most people faced app usage problems such as failed facial scans, inability to verify identity, changing phone numbers, and opening new bank accounts to be ready for the program’s benefits. The bank set up special one-stop service counters with staff to facilitate and continuously advise people on app usage and registration procedures.
The "Thai Help Thai Plus" program is a government measure to ease living costs. The government subsidizes 60%, with citizens paying 40%, providing up to 1,000 baht per month for four months from 1 June to 30 September 2026, totaling 4,000 baht per person and covering 30 million rights nationwide.
People who came for service said they sought help from the bank because their old phones could not support app updates and they encountered facial scan and identity verification problems. Even with help from younger family members, they failed to resolve the issues, so they decided to visit the bank for assistance to prepare for registration when the system opens.
They also viewed the "Thai Help Thai Plus" program as helpful in reducing expenses, especially for low-income individuals. Although the average aid is about 200 baht per day, it helps purchase food and daily necessities. They thanked the government for the assistance measures and expressed hope for similar programs to continue in the future.