Citizen’s Account Program in Saudi Arabia: Eligibility, Payments, and Updates

Across Saudi Arabia, families open their phones on the 10th of each month, waiting for a familiar notification: the Citizen’s Account deposit. For many, this moment brings reassurance that essential expenses—such as fuel, electricity, and food—can be managed despite rising living costs. It is not just a transfer of funds, but a structured government initiative designed to protect household stability and support financial planning.

The Citizens’ Account Program has become one of the most impactful social support systems in the Kingdom. In this article, we will explore its objectives, eligibility criteria, registration process, and wider role in strengthening the Saudi economy.

What is the Citizen’s Account Program?

is a Saudi government initiative launched in December 2017 by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. Its primary purpose is to provide direct financial support to eligible Saudi households, helping them cope with the economic impact of reforms such as fuel price adjustments, electricity tariff changes, and the introduction of value-added tax (VAT).

Unlike traditional subsidies, which often benefit both high- and low-income groups, the Citizen’s Account Program is designed with targeted assistance. This means that the support amount each household receives is calculated based on family size, total income, and other relevant factors. The goal is to ensure that financial aid reaches those who need it most.

Over the years, the program has become an essential component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, as it does more than support families in maintaining purchasing power; it also promotes fairness and transparency in distributing government aid. Today, millions of citizens rely on the program as a steady and predictable form of financial support, allowing them to plan their household budgets better.

Objectives of the Citizen’s Account Program

The Citizen’s Account Program was designed with several strategic objectives that align with Saudi Arabia’s economic and social development plans under Vision 2030. Its key objectives include:

• Protecting Household Budgets By providing direct monthly transfers, the program ensures that households can withstand the financial pressures caused by fuel price adjustments, VAT, and other economic reforms.
• Promoting Social Justice The program shifts from generalized subsidies to targeted support, ensuring that financial assistance is directed to low- and middle-income households that are most affected by rising living costs.
• Encouraging Efficient Resource Use The program promotes responsible electricity, fuel, and water consumption, aligning with the Kingdom’s sustainability goals by removing blanket subsidies.
• Enhancing Financial Planning for Families The stability of monthly deposits allows families to plan their expenses more effectively and maintain a sense of financial security.
• Supporting National Economic Reforms As part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, the program helps ease the transition toward a more diversified economy while maintaining social stability.

Eligibility Criteria for the Citizen’s Account Program

The Citizen’s Account Program has established clear eligibility rules to ensure financial support is distributed fairly and effectively. These criteria determine who can apply and the level of support they may receive:

1. Nationality Requirement The applicant must be a Saudi citizen. Exceptions apply to certain groups, such as holders of Saudi nationality cards (Saudi mothers married to non-Saudis, permanent residents, etc.).
2. Residency Requirement The applicant must be residing in Saudi Arabia permanently. Applicants who spend more than 90 consecutive days outside the Kingdom within a year may lose eligibility.
3. Age Requirement The main applicant must be at least 18 years old. Dependents can be added if they are below this age (e.g., children).
4. Income Requirement The amount of support is based on the total household income. Higher-income households may receive reduced support or may be deemed ineligible.
5. Household Composition Eligibility also depends on the number of dependents (spouse, children, or other supported family members). Larger households may receive higher support due to greater living expenses.
6. Documentation and Accuracy Applicants must provide accurate income details and other required information. Any discrepancies can result in the reduction or suspension of benefits.

How to Register for the Citizen’s Account Program

The Saudi government has streamlined the registration for the Citizen’s Account Program to ensure accessibility for all eligible citizens. The entire process can be completed online through the official Citizen’s Account portal. Below are the key steps:

1. Access the Official Portal Visit the official website, Click on “New Register” to begin the registration process.
2. Create a User Account Enter your National ID number, date of birth, and mobile number. A verification code will be sent via SMS to confirm your mobile number.
3. Set Up Login Credentials Create a username and password. Use these details to log in to the portal.
4. Provide Personal and Household Information Fill in details such as marital status, number of dependents, and residential address. Upload or verify required documents (if requested).
5. Declare Income Information Report the total income for all household members. Accuracy is critical, as this determines the level of support.
6. Submit the Application Review all details carefully before submitting. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation message.
7. Track Application Status Log in periodically to check your application status. Notifications are also sent via SMS regarding approval or requests for additional documents.

Required Documents and Information for the Citizen’s Account Program

To complete registration and remain eligible for monthly support, applicants must provide accurate information and, in some cases, supporting documents. These requirements help ensure transparency and fair distribution of financial aid. The main documents and information required include:

1. National ID Information Applicant’s National ID number, and National ID numbers of dependents (spouse, children, or others).
2. Proof of Residency Residential address details. A utility bill or rental agreement may be requested for verification.
3. Income Information The applicant's details of the monthly salary and other income sources, as well as income information for dependents (if applicable).
4. Employment Details Employer’s name, job position, and Employment status (public sector, private sector, or unemployed).
5. Bank Account Information International Bank Account Number (IBAN). Bank account must be active to receive monthly deposits.
6. Additional Documents (if requested) Proof of dependency (for children or elderly dependents) and Documentation for special cases such as divorce or widowhood.

How Payments Are Calculated in the Citizen’s Account Program

The Citizen’s Account Program is built on the principle of targeted financial support, meaning that assistance is not uniform for everyone. Instead, payments are calculated based on a formula that considers several key factors:

• Household Income The total income of the applicant and dependents is the most important factor. Higher household income leads to lower support or ineligibility.
• Number of Household Members Larger families typically receive higher support. Each dependent (child, spouse, or other) increases the total eligible amount.
• Age of Dependents Dependents are categorized into two groups: - Above 18 years old: considered adults and may contribute to household income. - Below 18 years old: considered children and increase household support needs.
• Benefit Calculation Formula The program uses a benchmark allowance (calculated monthly) that reflects average living costs. Household income is compared against a set eligibility range, as the difference determines the support level.
• Government Announcements and Adjustments Payment amounts may change due to government policy updates, inflation adjustments, or new reforms.

Recent Updates and Changes (2025)

In 2025, several key updates have enhanced transparency, sustainability, and responsiveness in the Citizen’s Account Program. Here are the most significant developments:

• Program Extension through End of 2025 King Salman has extended the program, including its additional support framework, through the end of 2025. This ensures uninterrupted disbursements and continued access for new applicants.
• Financial Capacity Assessments Implemented (From January 2025) Starting in January, the program introduced stricter financial capacity criteria to target aid better. Thresholds define eligibility, such as a SAR 4 million asset limit for six-person households and SAR 1.37 million for single applicants. Field visits are also being used to validate applicants’ financial independence.
• Timely Monthly Disbursement Continues Support continues to be released around the 10th of each month. For example, the July 2025 payout went out on Thursday, July 10, with internal processes confirmed completed to ensure timely deposit. Similar punctual schedules applied for August and beyond.
• Usage of the Support Estimation Calculator The online “support estimator tool" helps applicants gauge their expected benefit by entering household size and income details. Beneficiaries are encouraged to check their eligibility regularly.
• Emphasis on Data Updates for Continued Eligibility The Ministry of Human Resources urges beneficiaries to keep their records up-to-date—especially changes in income, household composition, or marital status—to ensure accurate assessments and uninterrupted support.

Common Challenges and Solutions

While the Citizen’s Account Program is designed to be straightforward, many beneficiaries face recurring challenges.

• Application Rejection Due to Incomplete Data Some applicants fail to provide accurate income, family, or housing information, which can result in rejection. To prevent this, ensure that all required fields are completed with verified details, and cross-check with official records such as the National Address and employment data.
• Eligibility Suspension After Status Change Beneficiaries may lose eligibility if household income increases, family size changes, or marital status is updated without notifying the program. Updating personal and family information on the Citizen’s Account portal regularly helps avoid suspension or repayment requests.
• Delayed or Missing Payments Payment delays often occur due to incorrect IBANs or inactive bank accounts. Verifying that the registered bank account is active and that the IBAN matches official records ensures that transfers are successful and on time.
• Difficulty Using the Online Portal Elderly applicants or those with limited digital literacy may struggle to navigate the website or mobile app. They can seek assistance from family members, authorized service centers, or use the program’s customer service hotline for support.
• Uncertainty About Benefit Amounts Applicants may be unclear about their expected support. Using the “Support Estimation Calculator” available on the official website helps determine the approximate monthly benefit.

Read Also: Tax In KSA: Income Tax, Zakat, And Other Taxes Simply Explained.

The Citizen’s Account Program represents a significant step in providing targeted financial support to Saudi households, ensuring fairness, transparency, and social stability. By considering household income, family size, and other factors, the program delivers assistance where it is most needed. Staying informed about eligibility criteria, required documents, and recent updates is crucial for uninterrupted access to support. Proactively updating personal and household information helps avoid delays, suspensions, or reductions in payments.

FAQs about the Citizen's Account Program:

Who is eligible for the Citizen’s Account Program?

Eligibility is generally limited to Saudi citizens residing in the Kingdom, with household income and family size determining support. Adults under 18 or dependents must be declared, and all information must be accurate to maintain eligibility.

How do I register for the program?

Registration is completed online via the official portal. Applicants must provide personal, household, and income information, create a user account, and apply for verification.

What documents are required?

Applicants need their National ID, bank account details (IBAN), income data, and household composition. Additional documents, like proof of dependency or marital status, may be required depending on individual circumstances.

When are payments disbursed?

Payments are typically released around the 10th of each month. Delays may occur if bank information is incorrect or if applicant records are incomplete. Beneficiaries should verify their IBAN and keep their data updated.

How is the payment amount calculated?

The support amount depends on household income, number of dependents, and age of family members. The program uses a benchmark allowance and compares income against eligibility thresholds to determine the monthly payment.

What should I do if my application is rejected or my support is suspended?

If the application is rejected or support is suspended, verify all submitted information for accuracy and update any changes in income, family composition, or marital status. Reapply or contact the customer service hotline for guidance.