The Government of Pakistan has announced a major update to the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). Starting January 2026, quarterly payments under the Kafalat Program will increase from Rs. 13,500 to Rs. 14,500. This step aims to support low-income households amid inflation and improve their quality of life.
You can read more: Final Payment Phase Guide for Eligible Beneficiaries of the Benazir Kafaalat Program 2025
Summary of Key Changes
| Feature | Previous | New (Effective Jan 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Quarterly Payment | Rs. 13,500 | Rs. 14,500 |
| Monthly Equivalent | Rs. 4,500 | Rs. 4,833 |
| BISP Total Budget | Rs. 450 billion+ | Rs. 716 billion |
| Beneficiary Families | 9.3 million | 10 million |
Why Is the Payment Increasing?
The government’s decision to raise the payment amount is driven by:
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Rising inflation and cost of basic needs
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Commitments to IMF to enhance social protection
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A broader push to reduce poverty and improve access to education and healthcare
Who Qualifies for the Rs. 14,500 Payment?
Eligibility Criteria:
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Monthly household income: Rs. 30,000 or less
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Poverty Means Test (PMT) score:
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34 or lower (general applicants)
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37 or lower (widows, disabled persons)
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Exclusions:
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Any household member holding a government job
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Ownership of a car or large vehicle
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Any family member with a history of international travel
Priority Applicants:
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Female-headed households
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Families with disabled individuals
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Families with school-enrolled children
How to Apply for the BISP 2026 Payment
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Check Eligibility
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Send your CNIC number via SMS to 8171
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Or visit the 8171 BISP Portal
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Complete NSER Survey
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Go to your nearest BISP office
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Provide family details and income information
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Submit Documents
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Valid CNIC
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Income proof (if available)
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Utility bills
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B-Forms for schoolchildren (if applicable)
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You can read more: June 2025 BISP Step-by-Step Instructions for ID Card Payment Check
How to Receive the Rs. 14,500 Payment
Approved beneficiaries can receive payments through:
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HBL ATMs (with biometric verification)
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Authorized BISP Cash Centers
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Mobile wallets like JazzCash and EasyPaisa
Final Note.
The increase in BISP payments is a crucial step toward protecting vulnerable families from economic hardship. Make sure your CNIC is up to date, follow official procedures, and avoid dealing with unauthorized agents. For support, contact the BISP helpline at 0800-26477 or visit the official portal.
FAQs
1. When will the new BISP payment start?
The increased payment of Rs. 14,500 will begin in January 2026. Existing beneficiaries will receive the updated amount automatically.
2. Can new families still apply for the program?
Yes. An additional 700,000 families are being added. Eligible families can apply by visiting their nearest BISP office and completing the NSER Dynamic Survey.
3. What should I do if I am disqualified?
If disqualified due to a high PMT score, you can update your household data through the NSER survey. A change in income or family status may improve your eligibility.