Start by claiming what you’re entitled to: the national dibao program gives 3,600 yuan per child per year until the child turns 3.

1. Start by claiming what you’re entitled to: the national dibao program gives 3,600 yuan per child per year until the child turns 3.

Cost: Zero out-of-pocket expense. Simply apply at the local hukou office where your child is registered — one visit is all it takes.

In plain terms: If your child was born after January 1, 2025, and is under 3 years old, you qualify for this payment. One parent or legal guardian can submit the application at the child’s hukou office. The allowance is 3,600 yuan per year per child, paid out until the child reaches age 3. No personal income tax applies to this money, and it does not count toward any dibao or similar assistance calculations.

Benefit: As stipulated in the policy issued by the General Offices of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, infants and toddlers born after January 1, 2025, and under 3 years of age are eligible for a yearly payment of 3,600 yuan per child. This amount is exempt from personal income tax and is excluded from calculations of household or individual income when determining eligibility for dibao or similar programs.

Evidence grade: A

Notes: This is a nationwide baseline benefit. Certain provinces and municipalities also offer their own local subsidies, which can be claimed alongside this national payment. Over three years, the total comes to 10,800 yuan — a modest contribution toward raising a child. Do not let this amount influence your decision about whether or not to have a child.

Sources: General Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, General Office of the State Council of China (2025). Implementation Plan for the Childcare Subsidy System. <https://www.gov.cn/gongbao/2025/issue_12206/202508/content_7035435.html>