Chile Gas Subsidy 2026: How to Apply, Eligibility, and Latest Updates on Direct Transfers and Regional Exceptions

Chile’s government has confirmed that the 2026 liquefied gas subsidy for vulnerable households will be delivered through direct bank transfers rather than physical vouchers or gas cylinders, according to Interior Minister Claudio Alvarado.

The subsidy, part of the expanded “Chile Sale Adelante” plan, will provide financial assistance to households within the 80% most vulnerable bracket of the Social Household Registry (RSH), with a total budget of US$225 million allocated for the program.

Minister Alvarado clarified that payments will be processed through Banco Estado, eliminating the need for beneficiaries to visit physical locations or manage paper vouchers. This direct transfer method aims to streamline access and reduce administrative barriers for eligible families.

To determine eligibility, households must verify their status in the RSH by accessing the official registry website using their RUT and ClaveÚnica. However, being within the 80% vulnerability threshold does not guarantee automatic receipt of the subsidy, as final distribution remains subject to municipal coordination and verification processes.

Municipal associations have previously raised concerns about insufficient information and resources for local implementation, urging the government to provide clearer guidelines and direct funding transfers to streamline execution. Despite these challenges, the government maintains that the subsidy will begin disbursement in June 2026.

President José Antonio Kant confirmed the measure on April 1, 2026, as part of broader efforts to mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs on household budgets nationwide.