Havana Retirees to Receive Pension Payments in Malls

The Central Bank of Cuba (BCC) has announced the launch of a pilot program in four municipalities of Havana to decentralize the payment of pensions to retirees. Starting this April 2026, beneficiaries will be able to collect their payments directly at shopping centers and other local establishments, a measure aimed at mitigating the endless lines at bank branches and the chronic shortage of cash at ATMs.

Which municipalities are included in the plan?

The initial trial will take place in the following municipalities of the capital:

Old Havana (La Habana Vieja)
Playa
Plaza de la Revolución
La Lisa

According to banking authorities, retirees in these areas can go to selected stores and malls where specific payment points will be set up. This strategy is part of a larger effort to “bring services closer to citizens” and use existing commercial infrastructure to ease the burden on the national banking system, which has been overwhelmed in recent months.

Context of the Cash Crisis

Cuba is going through one of its worst liquidity crises in decades. The lack of physical bills in electronic ATMs is a constant complaint from the population, especially the elderly, who often have to wait hours — and sometimes days — to access their money. The government has tried to promote massive banking digitalization, but issues like poor connectivity and resistance to digital payment have slowed down these efforts.

Recently, the Central Bank also announced the circulation of new high-denomination bills to speed up cash transactions, given the high inflation affecting the country.

How will the in-store payments work?

Retirees must present their usual documentation and, at the designated locations, will be able to withdraw the full amount of their pension. It is expected that this measure will significantly reduce crowding in banks, allowing branches to focus on more complex procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can pensioners collect their money at any store in Havana? No, for now, it’s a pilot plan limited to specific establishments in the municipalities of Old Havana, Playa, Plaza de la Revolución, and La Lisa.

2. Is it mandatory to collect payments at shopping centers? No, it is an additional option. Retirees who prefer to use their usual bank branch can continue to do so, though the new method is recommended to avoid long waits.

3. What documents are needed to collect the pension? The same documents required at the bank: your ID card and, if applicable, the magnetic card or payment book.

4. Will this plan be extended to the rest of the country? Authorities have indicated that, depending on the results in Havana, the system could be gradually implemented in other provinces of Cuba.

Sources: Periódico Cubano, Directorio Cubano, CiberCuba.