Applications for National Support Fund Start Tomorrow... Birth Year Ending in 1 or 6 on Monday

Adults Apply Individually, Weekday System Applies Only in the First Week
Not Usable at Starbucks or Baemin... Available at Convenience Stores

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jang Sehee] The procedure for distributing the 250,000 KRW per person National Support Fund will begin on the 6th. According to the weekday system implemented in the first week, those whose birth year ends in 1 or 6 can apply on Monday.

According to the government on the 5th, the "11 trillion KRW scale Win-Win National Support Fund" will be distributed starting from the 6th. The credit card, debit card, or local gift certificate will be recharged the day after the application. Adults can apply individually, while minors must have the head of the household apply on their behalf to receive the funds.

To prevent congestion, a weekday system will be applied during the first week. Those whose birth year ends in 1 or 6 can apply on Monday, 2 or 7 on Tuesday, 3 or 8 on Wednesday, 4 or 9 on Thursday, and 5 or 0 on Friday.

Starting at 9 a.m., related information can be checked on credit card companies’ websites, the National Health Insurance Service website, and mobile apps.

The criteria for using the National Support Fund have become more stringent. This reflects the policy intent to revive local neighborhood businesses whose sales have sharply declined due to COVID-19. Citizens with addresses in special cities or metropolitan cities can only use the support funds at local gift certificate affiliated stores located in those special or metropolitan cities. Citizens with addresses in provinces can use the funds at local gift certificate affiliated stores within the corresponding city or county.

The funds can be used at traditional markets, neighborhood supermarkets, restaurants, hair salons, pharmacies, optical shops, clothing stores, academies, hospitals, franchise affiliated stores, and so on. Accordingly, Starbucks, Chanel stores, Coupang, Baedal Minjok, and similar are excluded from eligible usage locations. However, even if ordering through delivery apps, if payment is made on-site using the local gift certificate affiliated store’s own terminal, the National Support Fund can be used.

Meanwhile, a separate objection procedure will also be operated. If family relationships have changed due to marriage or childbirth after June 30, or if health insurance premium adjustments are needed, objections can be filed. From the 6th of next month, applications can be submitted online via the National Sinmungo or at the local town, township, or neighborhood community service center that has jurisdiction over the applicant’s address.