It was a happy day for the elderly and persons with disabilities on Monday when they finally received an increase in their monthly welfare benefits.

This was confirmed by a reliable source at the Samoa National Provident Fund, who stated that the new payout took effect on 17 November. 

Attempts to get a comment from the Chief Executive of the Samoa National Provident Fund, Lemalu Selesitina Meni, on the total amount they paid out were unsuccessful.

However, some elderly people and persons with disabilities were able to share how thankful they were for the increase they received on Monday.

Salofi Aiufi of Sapunaoa said he was shocked because he didn't know the increase was already effective on Monday. He was thinking that it was the usual $100 he gets every month.

"I was shocked when my wife came with the $300 on Monday, and it helps a lot in terms of supporting my children and family," he said.

A man with a speech disability expressed his excitement when he was given $300 by his sister.

"He said he will give half of it to our mother, and use the other half to buy whatever he needs," The man's sister, Alala Satele of Satalo,  interpreted.

A 67-year-old retired teacher at Falealili, Ana Siufaga, said this increase is a great help for supporting her family and her children.

"This increase helps a lot in terms of assisting in caring for my children and grandchildren, but also buying what I want daily," she said.

"Even though the cost of living is skyrocketing but at least there's an increase in the pension."

The payout increase is one of the many promises made by the government (Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi) during the campaign period.

Pension and disability benefit increments were announced in the 2025/2026 national budget and came into effect in this month's payout.