BISP adds 8.87 lakh women in 2025 – Check eligibility, payments & how to apply

In a significant move to support low-income families, the Government of Pakistan has added 8 lakh 87 thousand new women to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). This expansion marks a new milestone in the country’s efforts to combat poverty and empower women financially.

Let’s explore what this means, how the program works, who qualifies, and how to apply.

What is BISP?

The Benazir Income Support Programme, or BISP, is a welfare initiative that helps women from underprivileged households. Launched in 2008, it gives quarterly financial assistance to women, helping them manage household expenses and improve their standard of living.

The goal is to reduce poverty, promote equality, and provide financial stability to families in need — with a focus on women, as they are often the most affected in low-income situations.

What’s New in 2025?

In July 2025, BISP added 887,000 new women to its beneficiary list. With this latest expansion:

• The total number of women receiving aid now exceeds 9 million.
• More women are being brought into the digital economy using smart cards and bank accounts.
• The process of receiving aid is becoming more transparent through biometric verification and automated systems.

This shows the government’s continued commitment to supporting women and reaching as many deserving families as possible.

Why This Matters

Adding such a large number of women to the program has wide-reaching effects:

1. Helping Families Survive

The money women receive helps them buy food, pay for healthcare, and send their children to school. For many families, this support is life-changing.

2. Women in Control

By transferring money directly to women, BISP helps give them control over household budgets. This promotes independence and respect in their families and communities.

3. Access to Banking

With more women using bank accounts and ATMs, they are becoming part of the formal financial system. This opens doors to saving, insurance, and other opportunities.

How to Register for BISP (Using 8171)

If you believe you qualify, here’s how to apply in a few simple steps:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Type your CNIC number in a text message.
2. Send it to 8171.
3. You’ll receive a reply stating whether you are eligible or not eligible.
4. If eligible, visit your nearest BISP center or bank branch for identity verification.
5. Complete your thumbprint verification (biometric check).
6. Once verified, you’ll get a smart card or bank account setup to receive payments.

This simple process makes it easier for women from all areas—urban or rural—to apply without needing complex forms.

Eligibility Criteria

Not everyone is eligible for BISP. The program is meant only for those who meet certain conditions:

Basic Requirements:

• You must be a Pakistani citizen.
• You need to have a valid CNIC.
• Your household income must be below the poverty threshold.
• You should not already be receiving similar government aid.

BISP uses a scoring system to check each household’s situation, based on income, number of dependents, and living conditions.

How Much Money Does BISP Give?

Each beneficiary currently receives between Rs. 13,500 to Rs. 15,000, once every three months. This amount may change based on government budget updates and inflation.

Payments are made quarterly, ensuring families have a regular source of income to manage their expenses.

How Are Payments Made?

To make sure the money goes directly to the right person, BISP uses modern payment systems, including:

• Biometric verification (thumbprint checks) to avoid fraud
• Smart cards that can be used at ATMs
• Bank transfers for women with personal accounts

This system ensures transparency and reduces the chances of mistakes or corruption.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

Even though BISP has improved, some people still face challenges like:

• Delays in payment
• Errors in biometric matching
• Unofficial deductions by agents

If this happens to you, visit your nearest BISP office or call the helpline. Never give your card or ID to someone else, and avoid dealing with unauthorized middlemen.

Read More: BISP launches free training under Hunarmand Programme