worldbank.org (30.10.2026) This report examines the digitalization of government-to-person (G2P) social assistance payments across 383 programs in 123 countries. It analyzes payment methods, payment service providers, account functionality, and the enabling factors that support digital delivery. While digital payments are widely used, many countries continue to rely on mixed digital and manual systems. The report highlights the potential of digital payments to improve efficiency, financial inclusion, resilience, and women’s economic empowerment, while identifying persistent barriers related to access to identification, financial services, and digital infrastructure. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive design, supportive regulatory frameworks, diverse payment service providers, and continued investment in digital ecosystems to strengthen adaptive and equitable social protection systems.