Seniors Aged 65+ Can Now Collect Benefits, Subsidies Increased in July! Rumors Spread Online About Second-Generation Elderly Cards — Point Redemption, Shopping Use, and Replacement Schedule Explained

With four months remaining until the 2026 county and city mayoral elections, local governments across Taiwan are introducing new elderly welfare policies. Following earlier online rumors about a 'historic evolution' of Taipei’s elderly card, recent messages circulating on social media and LINE groups have claimed a 'new update on elderly card replacement,' suggesting the launch of a second-generation elderly card. These messages urge seniors to bring their old cards and identification documents to replace them early, stating that starting in 2027, 300 points can be used for shopping at farmers’ associations and convenience stores. In response, the Taiwan Fact-Checking Center has released an investigation report to clarify the situation.

The report reveals that the online message titled 'New Information on Elderly Card Replacement' claims cardholders can visit local township offices to exchange their cards for the second-generation version. Required documents include the old card, ID, personal seal, and one recent photo taken within the past three months. If the old card is not brought, a manufacturing fee of NT$100 will be charged. The message urges prompt replacement to avoid delays. Regarding stored value, it claims that any remaining balance on the old card will be refunded by EasyCard Corporation after the card is collected, either as cash at MRT stations or transferred to the new card.

The message further claims: - Starting in 2027: 300 points can be used for shopping at farmers’ associations and convenience stores - Starting in 2029: Unused monthly points will no longer expire and can be carried over, though shopping remains capped at 300 points per month

However, the fact-checking center notes that while all municipalities offer elderly cards to those aged 65 and above, benefits vary by region with no nationwide standard. Residents are advised to consult their local social affairs bureaus or official websites. Taipei and New Taipei Cities have announced they will begin full replacement with second-generation Elderly and Love Cards starting next year. Taipei City announced at the end of June that the full replacement will be completed by 2027 and urged residents not to rush, as new features will only be activated after the replacement process is complete. On July 28, Taipei’s Social Affairs Bureau clarified that second-generation cards are currently only issued in cases of chip malfunction or loss. Full replacement will begin next year.

New Taipei City also plans to start replacement next year, while Taoyuan and Taichung City governments have issued official denials of the rumors. Regarding usage scope and points, Taipei’s Social Affairs Bureau stated that subsidy points have been increased to 600 starting July 2024. Starting next year, the redemption scope will gradually expand, with the following plans: - First half of 2027: Increase subsidies for Taoyuan Metro, Blue Highway (water transport), and double-decker sightseeing buses - Second half of 2027: Expand use to pharmacies, convenience stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ associations - 2029: Complete second-generation card replacement and implement a point carryover system

Additional exclusive reports from Feng Media: - Seniors aged 65+: One city’s elderly card rumored to undergo a historic upgrade—more points, usable at convenience stores. How to apply for the second-generation card? - What happens if you don’t pay National Pension? Can you still receive old-age benefits at 65 with National Insurance arrears? Two real cases and benefit details explained - Are you receiving less than you should in Labor Insurance pension? Over 30% of workers have salaries legally underreported—labor groups’ advocacy results revealed