The Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) has announced a major update, increasing the quarterly payment to Rs. 13,500, starting from January 2025. This update is part of the government’s efforts to uplift marginalized families in Pakistan. The program will also expand to include an additional one million families, ensuring more people benefit from this essential financial aid.
Key Highlights of the New 13500 Payment
The latest update to the Benazir Kafaalat Program offers several key changes:
- Increased Payment: The amount provided to beneficiaries has been increased to Rs. 13,500 every three months, up from the previous Rs. 10,500.
- Expanded Coverage: The program now includes one million new families, ensuring more households receive support.
- Payment Timeline: Payments will be distributed in phases across Pakistan, with the process expected to be completed in approximately 60 days.
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| Key Change | Details |
|---|---|
| Increased Payment | Rs. 13,500 every three months |
| New Families Added | One million additional families |
| Payment Distribution Time | 60 days to complete across districts |
Eligibility Criteria for the New Installment
To qualify for the new payment installment, beneficiaries must meet specific requirements:
- Registered Beneficiaries: Only those already enrolled in the program are eligible.
- Updated Household Information: Ensure your details are updated in the BISP database by completing the survey.
- Poverty Score: Families with a poverty score below the required threshold are eligible.
- SMS Verification: Send an SMS to confirm your eligibility through BISP’s official service.
- Support at Tehsil Offices: Visit your nearest tehsil office or BISP service center if registration issues arise.
How to Withdraw the New Payment
Beneficiaries can easily withdraw their Rs. 13,500 payment through various methods:
ATM Withdrawal Process
- Visit a Participating ATM: Go to ATMs from banks like HBL, Bank Al Falah, or JazzCash that support BISP services.
- Select BISP Payment Option: Insert your ATM card and select the BISP Payment option.
- Choose Amount: Select Rs. 13,500 to withdraw.
- Complete Transaction: Finish the transaction and collect your cash.
Direct Bank Transfers
To simplify the process, payments will now be made directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts. This update eliminates the need to visit physical camps or tehsil offices, making it more convenient to receive payments.
Good News for New Applicants
Newly registered families can also expect to receive their first installment of Rs. 13,500 starting in January 2025. If you registered in November or December 2024, ensure that all your details are correctly entered into the system. Follow the same withdrawal steps as regular beneficiaries to access the funds.
Improved Payment System for 2025
The government has worked to improve the payment process to ensure better accessibility and efficiency:
- Direct Bank Transfers: Beneficiaries can now directly withdraw their payments from designated ATMs, reducing the reliance on physical distribution camps.
- Wider Bank Network: More banks are now offering BISP payment services, making it easier for beneficiaries to access their funds.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the improvements, there may still be some challenges for beneficiaries:
- ATM Device Issues: If an ATM malfunctions, contact the bank’s helpline or visit a nearby branch.
- Long Queues: To avoid waiting, visit ATMs during off-peak hours.
- Scams and Fraud: Always use official BISP channels to avoid fraudsters. Do not trust unauthorized agents demanding fees.
Conclusion
The Benazir Kafaalat Program’s latest update, which increases payments to Rs. 13,500, is a significant step toward reducing poverty in Pakistan. The expansion of the program to include more families ensures that more people will benefit from this crucial financial support. Beneficiaries should ensure their registration is up-to-date and follow the new, improved procedures to withdraw their payments conveniently.
Stay informed through official BISP channels to ensure you don’t miss any important updates regarding the program and its payment process.