He Deputy Daniel Arroyo spoke about the new bill he is working on. His proposal is the creation of a Universal Disability Allowance. This initiative aims to offer financial support to all people who have a Single Disability Certificate (CUD). That is, it would have a scope greater than the non-contributory pension (PNC) paid by Considered.
What is Universal Disability Allowance?
The former Minister of Social Development indicated that this project not only focuses on the creation of the Universal Disability Allowance. That is, it would not only provide financial assistance to people with different abilities. It also seeks to reinforce the current law around their rights.
Likewise, the initiative includes approaches in health, education and work to guarantee greater inclusion of people with disabilities in society. The proposed new universal allocation scheme aims to resolve the historic debate over whether or not PNCs should be awarded based on work disability.
Higher cost of living for people with disabilities
Daniel Arroyo stressed that the cost of living for a family that includes a person with a disability is 30% higher. For this reason, he justified the need for the National State to provide extra economic support to cover additional needs. This includes medical treatments, special education and other expenses.
Changes in Non-Contributory Pensions
A central point of the debate about the new Universal Disability Allowance is its compatibility with registered work. During Alberto Fernández’s mandate, Decree 566/2023 allowed PNC holders for disability to have formal employment, either as dependent or independent workers.
However, this decree was repealed by Javier Milei through the Decree 843/2024. As a result of this repeal, PNC disability beneficiaries can no longer formally work without losing their pension. The measure has generated concern among those who see employment as a way to improve their quality of life.
Differences between the PNC and the AUH due to disability
The PNC for disability is equivalent to 70% of the minimum retirement of the Argentine Integrated Pension System (SIPA). Therefore, its amount is $164,178.16 in October. Adding the $70,000 bonus, Anses pays a total of $234,178.16 to these beneficiaries.
In addition to collecting the benefit, pension holders have medical coverage through the Incluir Salud Program.
In contrast, the Universal Child Allowance (AUH) for disability is $285,866, of which 20% is withheld and $228,682.80 is paid. Likewise, these beneficiaries receive the Alimentar Card, which grants an extra $52,250 for the purchase of food.
An allowance for a disabled child is also granted to workers registered through the Single Family Allowance System (SUAF). In this case, the amount varies depending on the income of the family group, being $142,935 for those with a gross salary of up to $679,718.
