In March, pension and retirement payments in Argentina will increase by 2.88%, following adjustments based on the inflation rate reported by the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INDEC) for January. This increment is a result of the ongoing inflationary pressures in the country, which have been impacting the purchasing power of citizens, including retirees and pensioners. The minimum benefits, however, will see a lower increase due to the fixed bonus of up to $70,000 that recipients have been getting for the past two years without changes.

For the minimum retirement benefit, the amount will rise from $429,254 in February to $439,600, which is a 2.4% increase. Similarly, the Universal Pension for the Elderly (PUAM) will go up from $357,403 to $365,680, reflecting a 2.3% increment. Additionally, the Non-Contributory Pension (PNC) will increase from $321,478 to $328,720, marking a 2.25% rise. These adjustments are essential for ensuring that the most vulnerable groups have some level of economic support amidst rising costs.

Moreover, the maximum pension will increase from $2,417,442 to $2,487,064, also resulting in a 2.88% increase. Family Allowances (AAFF) and the Universal Child Allowance (AUH) will witness the same percentage increase, aiming to provide concurrent support for families. As adjustments are made, the government faces scrutiny over the real impact of inflation on citizens' lives and the effectiveness of these increments in combating the economic challenges faced by many Argentines during this period of financial strain.