Single allowance: children are decreasing (-100 thousand) but spending due to inflation is rising

The decline in birth rates is also starting to have an impact on the numbers of the single allowance distributed monthly to families with children aged 0 to 21, i.e. the main measure of economic support for families with dependent children.

The latest INPS report which photographs the situation in the first half of 2026 showed 100 thousand fewer children receiving the bonus compared to the first six months of 2025: last year 9.7 million children benefited from it, while this year it went to 9.6 million.

Translated, the balance between 21-year-olds who leave the allowance and newborns who enter it is negative by 100 thousand units. But, with the push of inflation, the contribution that each child collects monthly also increases.

Together with the children, the number of families entitled to the bonus obviously decreases. If in 2025 there were 6,143,240, this year they have become 6,095,716.

And the 100 thousand fewer children who are entitled to the allowance do not even produce any relief for the state coffers. Because, again according to what INPS reports, in the first six months of this year the cost of the check 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 is decreasing and the cost of the allowance is increasing? Inflation is to blame. In fact, the benefit is updated every year to the cost of living. And in times of spiraling prices, the bonus also undergoes an increase.

The average amount per child in June 2025, including applicable increases, stood at €170, and ranged from around €57 for those who do not present an ISEE or exceed the maximum threshold to €224 for the minimum ISEE class.

In June 2026, however, the average amount per child, including applicable increases, stands at €175, and ranges from around €58 for those who do not present an ISEE or exceed the maximum threshold to €227 for the minimum ISEE class. The increases are recognized in relation to specific characteristics of the family unit, such as the presence of children with disabilities, the size of the family, the young age of the mother and, with reference to minor children, the presence of both parents with income from work.