Venezuela has increased its minimum comprehensive income by 26% [1], raising the monthly payment to 240 USD [2].

The adjustment aims to restore purchasing power for workers after years of wage stagnation. The government intends to fund the increase by leveraging national developments in the mining and petroleum sectors [6].

Interim President Delcy Rodríguez announced the measure on April 8, 2026 [4]. The new pay scale took effect today, May 1, 2026 [5]. The previous minimum comprehensive income stood at 190 USD per month [3].

Rodríguez described the move as a calculated effort to support the workforce. "This is a responsible increase that seeks to improve the purchasing power of workers," Rodríguez said [7].

While the government has promoted the 240 USD figure, some reports have cited a lower increase of 160 USD attributed to President Nicolás Maduro. However, multiple sources, including the Associated Press and El Economista, confirm the 240 USD amount [2, 8].

Rodríguez acknowledged the difficulty of the current economic climate and asked for public endurance during the transition. "I ask for patience from the workers while we implement this adjustment that will raise the minimum comprehensive income to 240 dollars," Rodríguez said [8].

The government spokesperson confirmed that the 26% increase [1] represents a direct response to the needs of the labor force in Caracas and throughout the country.

“The minimum comprehensive income passes to 240 dollars monthly, which represents an increase of 26% over the previous level.”

This wage hike reflects the Venezuelan government's attempt to stabilize a volatile economy by pegging minimum income to the U.S. dollar, which serves as a hedge against hyperinflation. By linking the increase to petroleum and mining revenues, the administration is betting on commodity exports to sustain domestic consumption without triggering further inflationary spikes.