Low birth rates are beginning to impact the numbers of the universal allowance distributed monthly to families with children from 0 to 21 years old, which is the main economic support measure for families with dependent children. The latest INPS report, which captures the situation for the first half of 2026, recorded 100,000 fewer children receiving the bonus compared to the first six months of 2025: last year, 9.7 million children benefited, while this year it dropped to 9.6 million. In other words, the balance between 21-year-olds leaving the allowance and newborns entering it is negative by 100,000 units. However, with the push of inflation, the contribution each child receives monthly also increases.
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Along with the children, the family units entitled to the bonus obviously decrease. If in 2025 there were 6,143,240, this year they have become 6,095,716.
And the 100,000 fewer children entitled to the allowance do not even produce a relief for the State coffers. Because, according to INPS, in the first six months of this year the cost of the allowance increased by 100 million compared to the same period in 2025. Last year, 9.8 billion euros were disbursed compared to 9.9 billion this year. How is it possible that the number of children decreases and the cost of the allowance increases? The blame is inflation. The benefit is updated every year according to the cost of living. And in times of soaring prices, the bonus also undergoes an increase.
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The average amount per child in June 2025, including applicable increases, was around €170, ranging from about €57 for those who do not present ISEE or exceed the maximum threshold to €224 for the lowest ISEE class.
In June 2026, the average amount per child, including applicable increases, stands at €175, ranging from about €58 for those who do not present ISEE or exceed the maximum threshold to €227 for the lowest ISEE class. The increases are granted in relation to specific characteristics of the family unit, such as the presence of children with disabilities, family size, the young age of the mother, and, with reference to minor children, the presence of both parents with earned income.
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