Chiang Mai: This morning, elderly people in Chiang Mai braved the cold to withdraw 10,000 baht from the digital wallet project to spend. However, some people did not register, so they missed out on receiving the 10,000 baht in Phase 2.
According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere in front of the ATM of the Government Savings Bank, Doi Saket Branch, Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai Province was filled with elderly people walking with passbooks and ATM cards, facing the cold wind to check their balance. Many were filled with joy as they saw ten thousand baht deposited into their accounts. For instance, Grandma Sommai, aged 72, woke up as early as 5 a.m. to confirm her balance at the bank. The sight of the deposit brought happiness to her, providing her with additional funds for spending, which she promptly withdrew to purchase essentials like rice and food from the market.
Grandma Pimporn, 63, owner of a red songthaew, used her ATM card to withdraw the amount to support her business. The money will be used to fuel her vehicle, which she uses to transport students and tourists. However, some elderly individuals missed out on the opportunity as they failed to register or comprehend the government app, leaving them without the funds today. They will have to wait for Phase 3 to register.
In Songkhla Province, the situation was similar, with elderly individuals eagerly waiting to receive the 10,000 baht into their accounts. A plumbing contractor among the recipients noted that he would use the funds to support his career and cover other expenses.
The excitement was also palpable in Nakhon Ratchasima, or Korat, where elderly people lined up in front of bank ATMs. The funds, linked to bank accounts through PromptPay, were eagerly anticipated. However, those without a PromptPay account faced disappointment as they could not access the funds. Officers were on hand to assist in linking accounts with PromptPay, allowing these individuals to receive their money in the next round scheduled for February 28, 2025.
To ensure future eligibility, individuals must link their PromptPay account with their national ID number by specified deadlines. The first deadline is February 25, 2025, with payment by February 28, 2025. Subsequent deadlines follow in March and April 2025, helping those who missed out initially to access the funds in forthcoming phases.