Benazir Income Support Programme – Complete Guide

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s largest social safety net, aimed at supporting underprivileged families, especially women, through unconditional cash transfers. Launched in 2008, this initiative continues to evolve, improving transparency, accessibility, and digital systems for millions of eligible citizens.

If you’re trying to check eligibility, understand how to register for BISP, or want to know how the 8171 BISP payment system works, this guide will cover everything you need to know—step by step.

Overview of Benazir Income Support Programme

BISP was introduced during the tenure of Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani under the vision of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. The programme provides financial assistance to low-income families across Pakistan, including:

• Unemployed individuals

• Widows

• Divorced women

• Orphans

• Persons with disabilities

• Transgender individuals

With the latest updates under the BISP Kafaalat program, eligible women receive Rs. 10,500 to Rs. 13,500 quarterly through biometric verification via HBL Konnect, Bank Alfalah, and other authorized payment channels.

Objectives of BISP

• Alleviate poverty through direct financial assistance

• Empower women financially

• Improve access to education through Waseela-e-Taleem

• Create inclusive digital registration and verification systems

BISP 8171 – Key Services and Features

The 8171 BISP system is an SMS-based and online web portal that allows citizens to check:

• Eligibility Status

• Payment Schedule

• CNIC Verification

• Registration Confirmation

You can send your CNIC number to 8171 or use the 8171.pass.gov.pk portal to check updates.

Who Can Apply for BISP?

To qualify for the Benazir Income Support Programme, you must fulfill specific eligibility criteria, assessed through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER). Here’s a breakdown:

✅ BISP Eligibility Criteria

• You must be a Pakistani citizen with a valid CNIC

• Monthly income must fall below the poverty threshold

• No international travel history (except Hajj/Umrah)

• No government job or large land ownership

• Not a taxpayer or vehicle owner (in most cases)

• Widows, persons with disabilities, and transgender individuals are prioritized

How to Apply for Benazir Income Support Programme

There are two main methods for BISP registration:

1. NSER Survey (Door-to-Door or Office-Based)

BISP officials conduct door-to-door surveys in various districts. Alternatively, you can visit the nearest BISP Tehsil Office for manual registration.

Documents Required:

• Original CNIC

• B-Form for children (if applying for education assistance)

• Death certificate of husband (for widows)

• Disability certificate (if applicable)

2. Online Check via 8171 Portal

You can visit 8171.bisp.gov.pk and enter your CNIC and mobile number to:

• Check if you are eligible

• See payment status

• Receive updates about your application

Latest Payment Amounts & Schedule (2025)

The government continues to issue quarterly installments under different BISP programs. Here’s a summary:

How to Check BISP 8171 Payment Online

You can follow these steps to confirm your eligibility and payment:

✅ Via SMS:

1. Open SMS app

2. Type your CNIC number

3. Send to 8171

4. You’ll receive a reply with your status

✅ Via Web Portal:

1. Visit 8171.bisp.gov.pk

2. Enter your CNIC and captcha code

3. Click “Submit”

4. Status will appear on screen

Benazir Taleemi Wazaif – For School Going Children

Under this scheme, children of BISP beneficiaries can receive educational stipends from primary to higher secondary level. The programme requires a minimum 70% school attendance for continued support.

Stipend Breakdown:

• Primary: Rs. 1,500 (boys), Rs. 2,000 (girls)

• Secondary: Rs. 2,500 (boys), Rs. 3,000 (girls)

• Higher Secondary: Rs. 3,500 (boys), Rs. 4,000 (girls)

2025 Updates in BISP System

Here are some major changes introduced recently:

• Dynamic Registration: NSER registration is now continuous through BISP offices

• Biometric Verification: Ensures transparent cash withdrawal

• Digital Complaint System: Lodge complaints online or via helpline

• Expansion to More Beneficiaries: Increased inclusion of transgender and disabled citizens

• Payment via JazzCash (pilot): In some areas, JazzCash is being tested as a payment channel

Common Problems & Their Solutions

How to Contact BISP Helpline

For any issues or complaints, you can contact:

• Helpline: 0800-26477

• SMS Support: 8171

• Website: bisp.gov.pk

• Nearest BISP Tehsil Office

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the BISP 8171 SMS code used for?

A: You can send your CNIC to 8171 to check your eligibility and payment status.

Q2: Is there any fee for BISP registration?

A: No, registration through NSER or Tehsil Offices is completely free of cost.

Q3: How often are BISP payments issued?

A: Payments are generally issued every three months under the Kafaalat program.

Q4: Can men apply for BISP?

A: The program is primarily designed for women, but men from eligible families can benefit through child stipends and specific programs like BISP Nashonuma.

Q5: What should I do if my biometric verification fails?

A: You must visit the nearest NADRA office to update your fingerprints or visit the designated payment center with your documents.

Q6: Is there an app for BISP 8171?

A: Currently, BISP only offers a web portal. Always avoid fake apps claiming to be affiliated with BISP.

Final Words

The Benazir Income Support Programme continues to be a critical support system for millions of low-income families across Pakistan. From cash stipends to child education incentives, the programme has significantly improved living standards for the underserved population.

Whether you’re checking your BISP eligibility, applying through NSER, or tracking your 8171 payment, this guide should help you navigate the entire process confidently and clearly.