Welcome to the
Budget
Boost Wallet Programme
In response to the increasing cost of living over the past four years, the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has launched the Budget Boost Wallet (BBW), a temporary support initiative designed to ease financial burdens for vulnerable households.
The Budget Boost Wallet delivers direct financial assistance of EC$1,500 over six months to individuals earning EC$5,000 or less per month. This initiative will help ease the cost of essential expenses, such as groceries, household goods, and utilities, ensuring that basic needs are met as we work toward broader economic stabilization and growth.
Eligibility
Are You Eligible for the Budget Boost Wallet (BBW)?
To qualify for BBW, you must:
- Be residing in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
- Have total gross earnings of EC$5,000 or less per month.
- Have a valid Social Security ID.
- Have made at least one Social Security contribution week since January 2024.
Unemployed individuals are also eligible, provided they are not students. Exceptions include students who receive stipends while studying, such as teachers-in-training or nursing students.
Note: Pensioners are not eligible for the BBW initiative. However, other social assistance programmes may be available. Visit socialdevelopment.gov.kn or their offices at Victoria Road, Basseterre to inquire.
For queries, contact the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs: Phone: 467-1370 | 662-5993
Funds will be deposited into a digital wallet on the JAD Platform and can only be used for the following purposes:
Groceries
At selected local businesses, supermarkets, and shops. See our list of participating businesses.
Utilities
Essential service providers namely SKELEC, NEVLEC, and the Water Services Departments (on Saint Kitts and on Nevis)
Mortgage Payments
Mortgage Payments to the National Housing Corporation (NHC) & Nevis Housing & Land Development Corporation (NHLDC).
Household Goods
Purchases must include essential items only (e.g., food, cleaning supplies, toiletries) and exclude alcohol, tobacco products, and cosmetics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will I receive payments?
Payments will be made monthly, credited to your digital wallet on the JAD Platform.
How will I receive payments?
Payments will be credited to your JAD digital wallet, which can be used at selected businesses and utility providers.
Do I need to apply?
Applications are to be made via the online platform JAD at https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash.
Can I receive BBW if I already receive other assistance?
Yes! Recipients of LIFT, food vouchers, etc., are also eligible.
How much will I receive?
Each eligible person will receive EC$250 per month, totalling EC$1,500 over six months.
What can I use the BBW funds for?
Funds can be used exclusively for groceries and basic household goods (essential items such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, kitchen essentials, paper products, and basic home maintenance items). Utility payments and mortgage payments to the National Housing Corporation (NHC) and Nevis Housing & Land Development Corporation (NHLDC)are also allowed.. Purchases of alcohol, tobacco products, and cosmetics are prohibited.
What if multiple people in my household qualify?
Each qualifying individual in a household will receive BBW. For example, if three people qualify, each wallet will be loaded with EC$250 providing a total support to the household of EC$750 per month.
How do businesses participate in the BBW programme?
Local businesses, supermarkets, and shops must register with JAD to be part of the BBW initiative.
What if I don’t have internet access to apply online?
Individuals without internet access can visit designated community centres or the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs (Victoria Road, Basseterre) for assistance with completing their application.
What happens if my application is incomplete or contains incorrect information?
Incomplete or incorrect applications may delay processing. Ensure all required details are accurate and up-to-date before submitting.
How will I know if my application is approved?
Approved applicants will receive a confirmation message via SMS or email with details about accessing their digital wallet.
Can I change my registered JAD wallet details after applying?
Yes, you can update your JAD wallet details by contacting the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs 467-1370 or 662-5993, or by visiting their offices at Victoria Road, Basseterre.
What if I start earning more than EC$5,000 after receiving BBW payments?
Eligibility will be re-evaluated periodically. If your income exceeds the threshold, your payments may be adjusted or discontinued.
Can BBW funds be transferred to another person or used for other purposes?
No, funds are non-transferable and must be used exclusively for approved expenses such as groceries, utilities, and mortgage payments to the NHC and NHLDC .
What documents will I need to apply?
Applicants will need to provide a valid Social Security ID.
If I register after January 2025, can I receive retroactive payments?
No, retroactive payments are not available. To receive the payment for January 2025, you must register by January 30, 2025. If you register in February or later, you will only receive payments for the month you registered and the remaining months of the programme.
Am I eligible to apply for the Budget Boost Wallet if I am unemployed?
Yes, you will be eligible if you made at least one Social Security contribution week between January 2024 and present.
If you need assistance with your wallet, please contact us at budgetwalletboost@jad.cash or 1-869-661-5237
