Ehsaas Kafalat Program ุงุญุณุงุณ ฺฉูุงูุช ูพุฑฺูฏุฑุงู
Pakistan’s largest cash transfer program serving 9.6 million families with quarterly payments of Rs. 13,500
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What is the Ehsaas (Benazir) Kafalat Program?
Program Identity & Purpose
The Benazir Kafalat Program is the core unconditional cash transfer (UCT) component of Pakistan’s social safety net. Launched in 2008 under the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), it was later branded as Ehsaas Kafalat during 2019-2022 under the broader Ehsaas Initiative.
Key clarification: Both names refer to the same program administered by BISP under the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety (PASS).
Core Mission
- ๐ฐ Provide financial cushion against economic shocks
- ๐ฉ Empower women through direct cash transfers
- ๐ฏ Target Pakistan’s most vulnerable households
- ๐ Support poverty alleviation and social protection
Women-Centric Approach
The program specifically targets female heads of households, recognizing women as key agents of family welfare. Cash transfers are deposited directly into women’s accounts, enhancing their financial autonomy and decision-making power.
Program Evolution Timeline
BISP Establishment
Benazir Income Support Programme launched. Initial selection through Parliamentary recommendations.
NSER Introduction
Shift to objective, data-driven selection via National Socio-Economic Registry survey.
Ehsaas Branding
Program branded under Ehsaas Initiative umbrella, gaining wider public recognition.
Emergency Response
Separate Ehsaas Emergency Cash program launched during COVID-19 (Rs. 12,000-25,000 one-time payments).
Current Operations
Robust operations under BISP with Rs. 716 billion budget. New payment amount: Rs. 13,500-14,000 quarterly.
Are You Eligible? Check the Latest Criteria for 2025
The program uses specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify the most deserving households. Review the requirements below to assess your qualification.
โ You MAY Be Eligible If…
- Your total household income is less than Rs. 25,000 per month
- You are a female with valid CNIC
- You are a widow, divorced, or have disabled family member
- Your NSER poverty score is 32 or below (37 if disabled family member)
- You represent the poorest households in your community
โ You Are NOT Eligible If…
- Any family member works for government or receives pension
- Your family owns more than 3 acres farmland or 80 sq. yards residential land
- Any family member has passport or NICOP (except Hajj)
- You are receiving aid from another government welfare program
- Any family member has regular bank account (except microfinance)
๐ฏ Priority Demographics
Widowed Women
Female heads of household without adult male family support
Families with Disabilities
Households including physical or mental disability (score raised to 37)
Unemployed Households
Families without stable employment or income sources
How to Register for the First Time: The NSER Survey Explained
Understanding the NSER Survey
The National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) is the foundational database used by the Government of Pakistan to identify poor and vulnerable households for all social protection programs. This survey is the only gateway for new families to enter the Kafalat Program.
๐ Step-by-Step Registration Process
Locate BISP Registration Center
Find your nearest BISP Tehsil office or dedicated NSER registration center. These are established across Pakistan specifically for conducting surveys.
Gather Required Documents
The female head of household must bring original documents:
- โ Valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC)
- โ Child Registration Certificates (B-Forms) for all children
- โ Recent utility bills (electricity/gas) if available
Participate in NSER Survey
Trained BISP staff will conduct detailed survey about your household’s socio-economic status, including:
- Family composition and demographics
- Education levels of household members
- Employment and income sources
- Assets ownership (property, livestock, vehicles)
Await Confirmation via SMS
After survey completion and data entry into NSER database:
- Processing and verification period begins
- Poverty score calculated based on survey responses
- If score โค32 (or โค37 with disability), you qualify
- Official SMS confirmation sent from 8171
๐ก Registration Success Tips
๐ Documents Prep
Ensure all documents are original and current. Expired CNICs must be renewed first.
๐ Timing
Visit centers during working hours. Avoid peak times for faster service.
๐ฏ Honesty
Provide completely accurate information. Verification is thorough.
๐ฑ Follow-up
Keep your mobile number active for SMS updates from 8171.
Payment Details: How Much & When You Get Paid
Current Quarterly Payment Amount
Some beneficiaries may receive Rs. 14,000 based on specific eligibility criteria and family circumstances.
๐ฐ Payment Amount Clarification
There’s often confusion about Kafalat payment amounts. Here’s the clear breakdown of what’s current versus historical:
Standard Kafalat Payment
Regular quarterly payment for most beneficiaries under current BISP operations.
Enhanced Payment
Higher amount for families with special circumstances or specific eligibility criteria.
Previous Amount
Old payment amount from previous years. No longer applicable in 2025.
Emergency Cash (Ended)
One-time COVID-19 relief payment. This was separate from regular Kafalat payments.
๐ Payment Schedule Information
Quarterly System
Payments are released every 3 months (four times per year) according to government fiscal calendar.
SMS Notifications
Beneficiaries receive SMS alerts from 8171 when payments are ready for collection.
Collection Period
Once notified, payments remain available for collection for several months.
How to Collect Your Kafalat Payment Safely
๐ณ Payment Collection Evolution
BISP has modernized payment collection methods over the years. Here’s how you can collect your quarterly payments and what to expect:
๐ง ATM & Debit Card System
How It Works:
Beneficiaries receive BISP debit cards linked to their accounts. Payments are directly deposited and can be withdrawn from any compatible ATM.
Available ATMs:
- BISP-designated ATMs
- Partner bank ATMs
- Mobile ATM services in remote areas
โ Advantages
- 24/7 availability
- Secure transactions
- No middleman required
- Digital transaction record
โ ๏ธ Considerations
- Requires ATM access
- Need to remember PIN
- Card maintenance required
๐ฑ Mobile Wallet Integration
Digital Payment Solutions:
BISP is expanding partnerships with mobile wallet services to provide more convenient payment options.
Potential Partners:
- JazzCash integration
- Easypaisa connectivity
- Bank mobile apps
๐ช Agent/Shop-Based Collection
Traditional Collection:
In areas with limited ATM access, authorized agents and shops may still facilitate payment collection.
Safety Measures:
- Verify agent authorization
- Check official BISP signage
- Get proper receipt
- Count money before leaving
โ Advantages
- Available in remote areas
- Personal assistance
- No technical knowledge needed
โ ๏ธ Risks
- Potential for fraud
- Service charges
- Limited operating hours
- Requires travel
๐ก๏ธ Safety Tips for Payment Collection
Protect Your PIN
Never share your ATM PIN with anyone. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Avoid Crowds
Visit ATMs during less busy hours. Be aware of your surroundings.
Verify SMS
Only collect payments after receiving official SMS from 8171.
Avoid Agents
Use ATMs whenever possible. Agents may charge unnecessary fees.
Understanding Pakistan’s Social Safety Net Ecosystem
The Kafalat Program is part of a broader ecosystem of social protection programs. Understanding these connections helps you access all available benefits.
Waseela-e-Taleem
Cash transfer program ensuring childrenโs schooling. Children receive regular stipends to promote continuous education nationwide.
Benefits Include:
- Rs. 2,000-4,000 monthly per child
- Conditional on school attendance
- Covers upto to secondary education
- Direct deposit to mother’s account
Sehat Sahulat Program
Free health insurance covering medical expenses up to Rs. 1 million yearly for each family at approved hospitals across Pakistan.
Coverage Includes:
- Hospitalization expenses
- Major surgeries and treatments
- Maternity care
- Emergency medical services
Ehsaas Amdan Program
Offers subsidies on fertilizers, seeds, and tools to support small farmers, boost crop yields, and enhance rural productivity.
Support Includes:
- Business startup grants
- Livestock distribution
- Skills training programs
- Market linkage support
Ehsaas Kisan Program
Offers subsidies on fertilizers, seeds, and tools to support small farmers, boost crop yields, and enhance rural productivity.
Benefits Include:
- Fertilizer subsidies
- Quality seed provision
- Agricultural training
- Market price support
Ehsaas Rashan Program
Delivers essential food items like flour, sugar, and oil at subsidized prices through authorized stores for low-income families.
Benefits Include:
- Subsidized wheat flour and rice
- Essential cooking oil and pulses
- Sugar and other basic commodities
- Up to 40% discount on retail prices
Ehsaas Tahafuz Program
Provides emergency aid and long-term support to affected families during floods, disasters, and economic crises across the country.
Support Includes:
- Cash assistance during disasters
- Shelter support for displaced families
- Medical aid and healthcare services
- Rehabilitation and recovery assistance
Important Program Distinctions
It’s crucial to understand the difference between federal programs (managed by BISP/PASS) and provincial programs. Eligibility criteria and application processes may vary.
๐๏ธ Federal Programs (BISP/PASS)
- Benazir Kafalat Program
- Waseela-e-Taleem
- Ehsaas Emergency Cash (ended)
- National health insurance
๐ข Provincial Programs
- Punjab Social Protection Programs
- Sindh People’s Support Programs
- KP Social Welfare Programs
- Balochistan Assistance Programs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Get answers to the most common questions about the Ehsaas Kafalat Program
Ehsaas Kafalat Program:
- โ Regular ongoing program since 2008 under BISP
- ๐ฐ Current payment: Rs. 13,500-14,000 quarterly (every 3 months)
- ๐ฉ Target: Female heads of households with NSER poverty score โค32
- ๐ Registration: Through NSER survey at BISP centers
- ๐ Status: Active and ongoing program
Ehsaas Emergency Cash (Historical):
- โฑ๏ธ Temporary program during COVID-19 (2020-2022)
- ๐ธ Payment amount: Rs. 12,000-25,000 one-time relief
- ๐ฏ Target: Broader population including daily wage workers
- ๐ฑ Registration: Online through Ehsaas Emergency Cash portal
- โ Status: Program ended – no longer accepting applications
Step-by-Step Registration Process:
๐ข Step 1: Locate Your Nearest BISP Center
Find BISP Tehsil office in your area. Every district has multiple registration points.
- Visit during working hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Avoid peak times (11 AM – 2 PM) for faster service
- Ask locals or call 0800-26477 for exact location
๐ Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Must bring original documents:
- โ Your valid CNIC (not expired)
- โ Children’s B-Forms (all under 18 years)
- โ Husband’s CNIC (if married)
- โ Utility bills (if available)
- โ Death certificate (if widow)
๐ Step 3: Complete NSER Survey
BISP staff will ask detailed questions about:
- ๐ Housing: Type of house, ownership, rooms
- ๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Family: Members, ages, education, disabilities
- ๐ผ Income: Employment, monthly earnings, assets
- ๐ Assets: Land, vehicles, livestock, appliances
โณ Step 4: Wait for Processing
- Processing time: 2-6 months typically
- Data verification and poverty score calculation
- SMS notification from 8171 with result
- If eligible, automatic enrollment and payment scheduling
๐ซ Important: There is NO online registration for new applicants. Beware of fake websites claiming online applications.
๐ฐ Current Payment Structure (2025)
๐ฅ Standard Payment: Rs. 13,500
- Most beneficiaries receive this amount
- Paid every 3 months (quarterly)
- 4 payments per year = Rs. 54,000 annually
โญ Enhanced Payment: Rs. 14,000
- Families with special circumstances
- Multiple children or disabled family members
- Extreme poverty cases (score below 20)
๐ Payment History Comparison
- 2025: Rs. 13,500-14,000 (Current)
- 2023-2024: Rs. 12,000 (Previous)
- 2021-2022: Rs. 10,500 (Historical)
- 2019-2020: Rs. 8,000-9,000 (Historical)
๐ Common Reasons for “Not Eligible” Status:
1. ๐ No NSER Survey Completed
Solution: Visit nearest BISP center to complete survey registration.
- Most common reason for ineligibility
- Must complete survey in person
- No online alternative available
2. ๐ Poverty Score Above Threshold
Current thresholds: Score must be โค32 (or โค37 with disability)
- Score calculated based on survey responses
- Higher income/assets = higher score = ineligible
- If circumstances changed, request re-survey
3. โ Exclusion Criteria Met
You may be excluded if family has:
- Government job or pension
- More than 3 acres land or 80 sq yards residence
- Passport/NICOP (except Hajj)
- Regular bank accounts
- Other government welfare benefits
4. ๐ง Data/Technical Issues
- CNIC number entry errors
- Database synchronization delays
- Recent survey still processing
โ What You Should Do:
- Visit BISP Office: Get official clarification on your status
- Bring Documents: CNIC and any relevant papers
- Request Review: If circumstances changed, ask for re-evaluation
- Appeal Process: File complaint if you believe there’s an error
๐ฑ Contact Information Updates
๐ Mobile Number Update Process
Step-by-step process:
- Visit BISP Office: Go to your nearest BISP Tehsil office during working hours (9 AM – 5 PM)
- Bring Original CNIC: Must carry your original computerized national identity card
- Fill Update Form: Complete the contact information update form provided by staff
- Verify Identity: Staff will verify your identity and current beneficiary status
- Get Confirmation: Receive written confirmation of the update request
๐ Address Change Process
Required documents for address change:
- โ Original CNIC with new address (if updated)
- โ Utility bills from new address (electricity, gas, or water)
- โ Rent agreement or property ownership documents
- โ Verification letter from local Union Council
๐จ Critical Reasons to Update Information
- SMS Notifications: Receive payment alerts and program updates
- Emergency Contact: BISP can reach you for urgent matters
- Payment Issues: Resolve payment problems quickly
- Program Changes: Stay informed about policy updates
๐ก Pro Tips for Smooth Updates
- ๐ Test New Number: Ensure your new mobile number receives SMS before updating
- ๐ Keep Old Records: Maintain copies of old documents until update is confirmed
- ๐ Visit Early: Go to BISP office early in the day to avoid crowds
- ๐ฑ Follow Up: Check status after a week by calling helpline 0800-26477
โณ Processing Timeline Breakdown
๐ Stage 1: Data Entry & Verification (2-4 weeks)
- Survey responses entered into NSER database
- Initial data validation and error checking
- Cross-verification with NADRA and other databases
- Household composition verification
๐ข Stage 2: Poverty Score Calculation (1-2 weeks)
- Complex algorithm processes all survey responses
- Assigns numerical poverty score (0-100 scale)
- Compares score against eligibility thresholds
- Special considerations for disabled family members
โ Stage 3: Final Review & Approval (1-2 weeks)
- Manual review of borderline cases
- Final eligibility determination
- Account setup for approved beneficiaries
- System enrollment and payment scheduling
๐ Typical Processing Times
๐ข Normal Cases
2-3 months
Standard households with clear documentation
๐ก Complex Cases
4-6 months
Large families, disability cases, or unclear documentation
๐ด Delayed Cases
6+ months
Data discrepancies, appeals, or system backlogs
๐ Factors That Affect Processing Speed
- โ Speeds Up Process: Complete accurate documents, simple family structure, clear income sources
- โณ Slows Down Process: Missing documents, large families, multiple income sources, data inconsistencies
- ๐ External Factors: Application volume, system maintenance, staff availability
๐ก What to Do While Waiting
- ๐ฑ Keep Phone Active: Ensure your mobile number stays active for SMS updates
- ๐ซ Don’t Re-apply: Multiple applications can cause delays and confusion
- ๐ Limited Follow-up: Only call helpline if it’s been over 6 months
- ๐ Maintain Documents: Keep all survey-related papers safe
๐ Payment Troubleshooting Guide
Step 1: Verify Payment Release Status
Check official channels first:
- ๐ Online: Visit 8171.bisp.gov.pk and enter your CNIC
- ๐ฑ SMS: Send your 13-digit CNIC to 8171
- ๐ Helpline: Call 0800-26477 for status inquiry
Understanding Payment Status Messages:
- “Payment Released” = Money is available for collection
- “Payment Pending” = Processing in progress, wait for release
- “No Payment Due” = No current payment scheduled
- “Account Suspended” = Contact BISP office immediately
Step 2: If Payment is Released but Not Received
๐ง ATM Collection Issues:
- Check Card Status: Ensure your BISP debit card is not expired or blocked
- Try Different ATMs: Visit 2-3 different BISP-compatible ATMs
- Verify PIN: Make sure you’re using the correct 4-digit PIN
- Check Balance: Use balance inquiry option to confirm funds
๐ช Agent Collection Issues:
- Verify Agent Authorization: Look for official BISP signage
- Bring Required Documents: Original CNIC and any SMS notifications
- Check Agent Stock: Agent may be out of cash, try later or different location
- Get Receipt: Always demand proper payment receipt
Step 3: Escalation Process
If above steps don’t resolve the issue:
- Visit BISP Office: Go to your nearest BISP Tehsil office with:
- Original CNIC
- BISP debit card (if applicable)
- SMS notifications from 8171
- Any payment receipts or transaction records
- File Complaint: Request to file formal payment complaint
- Get Complaint Number: Ensure you receive written complaint reference number
- Follow Up: Check complaint status after 3-5 working days
โ ๏ธ Common Payment Issues & Solutions
๐ด Card Blocked/Expired
Solution: Visit BISP office for card replacement or reactivation
๐ด Wrong PIN Attempts
Solution: Wait 24 hours or visit BISP office for PIN reset
๐ด Technical System Issues
Solution: Try again later or use alternative collection method
๐ด Incomplete/Partial Payment
Solution: Report immediately to BISP office with transaction receipt
๐ก๏ธ Prevention Tips for Future Payments
- ๐ฑ Save SMS Notifications: Keep all payment SMS for records
- ๐ง Collect Promptly: Don’t delay payment collection after SMS notification
- ๐ Keep Receipts: Save ATM receipts and agent payment slips
- ๐ Update Contact Info: Ensure BISP has your current mobile number
๐จ Male Eligibility: Understanding the Women-Centric Policy
๐ฏ Why the Program Targets Women
Core Philosophy: The Kafalat Program specifically empowers women as primary beneficiaries based on extensive research showing:
- ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Family Welfare Priority: Women are more likely to spend money on children’s health, education, and nutrition
- ๐ช Women Empowerment: Direct cash transfers increase women’s financial autonomy and decision-making power
- ๐ Poverty Reduction: Female-headed households often face higher poverty rates and need targeted support
- ๐ International Best Practice: Global evidence supports women-focused cash transfer programs
๐ When Men CAN Be Considered
Exceptional circumstances where male heads of household may qualify:
1. ๐ด Elderly Single Male Household
- Male head is 60+ years old
- No adult female family member in household
- Living alone or with minor children only
- Meets all other poverty and eligibility criteria
2. โฟ Disabled Male Head
- Male has severe physical or mental disability
- No capable adult female in household
- Officially documented disability certificate
- Unable to work due to disability
3. ๐จโ๐งโ๐ฆ Single Father
- Widowed or divorced single father
- Primary caregiver for dependent children
- No other adult female support in household
- Can demonstrate sole responsibility for children
๐ Application Process for Male Applicants
If you believe you qualify under exceptional circumstances:
- Visit BISP Office: Go to nearest BISP Tehsil office for consultation
- Explain Circumstances: Clearly explain why no adult female is available
- Provide Documentation: Bring supporting documents:
- Death certificate (if widowed)
- Divorce certificate (if divorced)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Children’s B-Forms
- Any other relevant documents
- Special Review: Your case will undergo special review process
- Committee Decision: Final decision made by BISP review committee
โ ๏ธ Important Considerations
๐ Lower Approval Rate
Male applications have significantly lower approval rates due to the program’s women-centric mandate. Most cases are referred to other social programs.
๐ Alternative Programs
BISP staff may refer you to other social protection programs better suited for male beneficiaries, such as employment schemes or disability support programs.
๐ Additional Documentation
Male applicants require more extensive documentation and verification compared to female applicants.
๐ Alternative Support Options for Men
- ๐ข Ehsaas Labor Program: Employment support and skills training
- ๐พ Ehsaas Kisan Program: Agricultural support for small farmers
- โฟ Disability Support Programs: Specialized assistance for disabled individuals
- ๐ฅ Sehat Sahulat Program: Universal health coverage (available for all)
- ๐๏ธ Provincial Programs: Check provincial government social protection schemes
๐ Essential Documents Checklist:
๐ Identity Documents (Mandatory)
- โ Your CNIC: Valid, not expired (must be original)
- โ Children’s B-Forms: All children under 18 years
- โ Husband’s CNIC: If married (original required)
๐ Supporting Documents (If Available)
- โฐ๏ธ Death Certificate: If widow (mandatory for widows)
- โ๏ธ Divorce Certificate: If divorced
- โฟ Disability Certificate: For disabled family members
- ๐ Property Documents: If you own land/house
- ๐ก Utility Bills: Electricity, gas, water (recent)
โ ๏ธ Important Document Guidelines:
- Original Only: Photocopies not accepted for primary documents
- Valid CNICs: Expired CNICs must be renewed first
- Complete Family: All family members must be documented
- Address Proof: Documents should match your current address
๐ก Pro Tips for Document Preparation:
- ๐๏ธ Organize documents in a folder before visiting
- ๐ฑ Keep digital copies on phone as backup
- ๐ Double-check CNIC numbers for accuracy
- ๐ Call BISP helpline if unsure about requirements
๐ณ Payment Collection Methods:
๐ง ATM Collection (Recommended)
How it works:
- You receive BISP debit card after enrollment
- Payments deposited directly to your account
- Withdraw from any compatible ATM
- Available 24/7 at thousands of locations
๐ก๏ธ Safety Tips:
- Never share your PIN with anyone
- Cover keypad when entering PIN
- Choose well-lit, secure ATM locations
- Count money before leaving ATM
- Keep transaction receipts
๐ช Agent/Shop Collection (Limited Areas)
When to use: Only in remote areas without ATM access
- Look for official BISP signage
- Verify agent authorization
- Get proper receipt with signature
- Count money carefully before signing
โ ๏ธ Risks to avoid:
- Unauthorized agents charging extra fees
- Incorrect payment amounts
- No proper documentation
๐ฑ Step-by-Step Collection Process:
- Wait for SMS: Official notification from 8171
- Verify Status: Check 8171 portal to confirm
- Visit Collection Point: ATM or authorized agent
- Bring CNIC: Always carry original CNIC
- Collect Safely: Follow security guidelines
- Keep Records: Save receipts and SMS
Stay Safe: Anti-Fraud Protection & Security Guidelines
๐ก๏ธ Essential Safety Rules
Protect Your Information
Never share your CNIC, ATM PIN, or personal details with anyone claiming to be from BISP via phone or SMS.
No Fees Required
BISP services are completely free. Never pay anyone claiming to expedite your application or payment.
Verify Official Sources
Only trust information from official BISP channels: 8171, bisp.gov.pk, or authorized offices.
Visit Official Centers
For any assistance, visit authorized BISP Tehsil offices. Verify office authenticity through official website.
โ ๏ธ Common Scams to Avoid
Fake Registration Fees
Scammers claim you need to pay a “registration fee” or “processing fee” to activate your Kafalat benefits. BISP registration is completely free.
Fraudulent Phone Calls
Imposters call claiming to be BISP officials asking for personal information or requesting payments to “unlock” your benefits.
Fake SMS Updates
Fraudulent SMS messages claiming your payment is blocked and asking for personal information or fees to release it.
Unauthorized Agents
People claiming to be “official agents” who can fast-track your application for a fee. All legitimate services are free.
๐ Report Fraud Immediately
Official Resources & Contact Information
Access authentic information and get help through these official BISP channels
๐ Primary Official Resources
Official BISP Website
Complete program information, guidelines, and official announcements
๐ Official Contact Methods
BISP Helpline
Toll-free helpline for all BISP inquiries
SMS Service
Send your 13-digit CNIC to check status
Official Email
General inquiries and feedback
Response within 48-72 hours
Visit BISP Office
In-person assistance and services
Document verification and updates
Emergency Support
BISP Emergency Helpline
0800-26477For urgent payment issues, fraud reports, or emergency assistance
Immediate response for critical situations