Taiwan Cabinet nixes NT$10,000 cash handout ‘opt-out’ option

台灣內閣否決普發1萬「不領取」選項

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Cabinet will keep the existing cash handout collection methods and will not add an “opt-out” option, citing security and scheduling concerns.

Officials said inter-agency discussions concluded an opt-out feature would require a separate identity verification system, which could delay distribution, per CNA.

The Cabinet passed a special relief act on Sept. 11, including a NT$10,000 (US$330) cash handout, pending Legislative Yuan approval. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) had asked the Ministry of Finance to study an opt-out mechanism after proposals from Shih Chao-hwei (釋昭慧), director of the Taiwan Center for the Study of Buddhism, and several civic groups.

Cabinet Spokesperson Li Hui-chih (李慧芝) said the government values civic proposals but must weigh cost and security risks. The review found that adding an opt-out page would necessitate a separate verification system to prevent personal data misuse and could slow the rollout.

The Cabinet therefore decided to retain existing collection channels without adding a page to keep distribution simple and smooth, Li said, adding that the decision has been conveyed to civic groups. The Cabinet thanked advocates for their concern over public finances and said it will continue to listen to public suggestions, while respecting each citizen’s freedom of choice regarding the cash handout.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the cash handout can be collected through five methods: online registration for bank transfer, ATM withdrawal, post office withdrawal, direct deposit for designated groups, and roster distribution for those unable to use the other methods.