The Greek government has detailed a new €500 million support package aimed at households and businesses, introducing a series of targeted measures to boost income, reduce living costs, and address private debt.

The plan includes eight key interventions, with expanded eligibility criteria expected to significantly increase the number of beneficiaries across multiple social groups.

Financial Support for Families and Pensioners

A central measure is a one-off payment of €150 per child, set to be distributed in June. The benefit will apply automatically to eligible households, covering around 80% of families with children—approximately 975,000 households.

At the same time, annual financial support for pensioners will increase from €250 to €300, with broader eligibility criteria extending coverage to about 85% of those aged over 65, as well as individuals with disabilities and uninsured elderly citizens.

Expanded Rent Refund Scheme

Income thresholds for rent refunds are also being raised, allowing more tenants to qualify. The revised limits are set at €25,000 for single individuals and €35,000 for couples, with additional allowances per child.

The measure is expected to cover around 86% of renters, or roughly one million citizens.

Debt Relief and “Second Chance” Measures

A key pillar of the package focuses on private debt relief. New provisions allow for the lifting of bank account seizures, provided that at least 25% of the debt has been repaid and the remainder is settled through a structured plan.

The out-of-court debt settlement mechanism will also be expanded to include debts as low as €5,000, while a new repayment scheme will allow up to 72 installments for older unpaid obligations.

Officials stressed that these measures are designed to support individuals and small businesses willing to meet their financial obligations, rather than strategic defaulters.

Energy and Agriculture Support

The package also extends subsidies for diesel fuel through May and financial support for fertilizers until August, aiming to ease pressure on both consumers and the agricultural sector.

Broader Economic Outlook

Alongside the measures, updated economic forecasts indicate growth of around 2% in 2026, with inflation expected to rise temporarily due to international factors before easing in 2027.

Officials emphasized that the economy remains resilient, with the new interventions intended to provide targeted relief while maintaining fiscal stability.

The government says the package reflects its commitment to supporting households amid ongoing economic challenges, while preserving the country’s overall growth trajectory.