The King Prajadhipok's Institute poll reveals that many people disagree with reducing the number of approved welfare card recipients, fearing that those who had previously qualified or might qualify could lose their rights and be excluded from the welfare system. The poll recommends increasing the aid amount or support to align with the cost of living.
On 31 July 2026, the King Prajadhipok's Institute released survey results on "Public perspectives on the State Welfare Card and its future direction." The survey was conducted from 25-28 July 2026 among 2,000 people aged 18 and over, distributed across regions nationwide.
When asked about the most problematic criteria for screening eligibility for the State Welfare Card, 24.4% identified the rule that applicants must not own a car or must own only one motorcycle of 300cc or less as the biggest issue. The next most problematic criterion was... . 15.0% cited the income limit of no more than 100,000 baht per year. Meanwhile, 14.6% felt the overall criteria were clear and appropriate, and 10.4% pointed to the rule that loans from financial institutions must not exceed 100,000 baht.
When asked about screening for the State Welfare Card, 53.1% disagreed with the reduction in the number of approved applicants because it could cause those who previously received or might qualify to lose their rights or be excluded from the welfare system. Meanwhile, 40.6% agreed, saying it would better target the budget to those truly eligible and in need, and 6.4% had no opinion.
Regarding important improvements in rights review, 27.7% wanted clear reasons for disqualification and the data used in decisions. Next, 25.1% wanted agencies to coordinate data corrections among themselves rather than requiring citizens to contact multiple offices. 19.4% wanted staff to assist the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable groups. 17.2% requested a single channel to check and correct data. 5.6% wanted clearly defined timeframes for review and notification of results, and 5.1% were unsure or had no opinion.
On key future challenges for the State Welfare Card, 31.7% proposed increasing aid amounts to match the cost of living. Next, 29.1% wanted improved criteria and databases for more accurate eligibility screening. 15.3% believed the policy should be combined with promoting careers and income generation. 8.7% suggested switching to a more suitable welfare system. 8.5% felt assistance should be appropriate and consider fiscal capacity. 2.2% thought the welfare card policy should be canceled, and 4.5% were unsure or had no opinion.
