TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Chiayi will distribute NT$6,000 (US$190) in cash to residents before the Lunar New Year, with an additional NT$1,000 for eligible seniors, the City Council announced Tuesday.

Chiayi City Council held a joint session Monday to review and approve the city government’s cash payout plan, per CNA. The second and third readings were completed Tuesday, and the schedule and details will be announced soon.

The council approved related budget items totaling NT$1.621 billion for the economic stimulus and cash payout plan, in line with the original allocations.

City Council Speaker Chen Tzu-wen (陳姿妏) said the payout was made possible through cooperation between the city government and the council. She urged officials to finalize and announce eligibility rules so residents can receive funds conveniently and securely.

In addition to the NT$6,000 payout, seniors will receive a Lunar New Year gift of NT$1,000. Residents who will be at least 65 as of Feb. 17, 2026, and have been registered in Chiayi City for at least six months are eligible, and the payment will be distributed at the same time as the general cash payout.