World · Vietnam Bureau
Chinese homeless man discovers forgotten $63,000 pension after 21 years
A 71-year-old man in central China has learned he is entitled to more than 420,000 yuan in accumulated pension payments, a discovery that comes after two decades spent scavenging for scrap materials to survive.
LSN Vietnam ·
The retiree, who had been living on the streets and collecting recyclable waste to make ends meet, was unaware that pension contributions had been made on his behalf, resulting in a substantial sum sitting unclaimed in his account.
The discovery was made when local authorities conducted outreach efforts to assist vulnerable populations in the region. Officials confirmed that the man was indeed entitled to the accumulated pension payments, which totaled more than 420,000 yuan, equivalent to approximately US$63,000.
The case highlights gaps in China's social welfare system, particularly regarding the communication of benefits to vulnerable populations. Many elderly citizens, especially those without stable housing or regular contact with government services, remain unaware of pensions or other financial support they may be entitled to receive.
The man's situation underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring that retirement benefits reach all eligible recipients, particularly those living in precarious conditions. Authorities indicated they would now process the overdue payments and ensure the retiree has access to the funds.