The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is Pakistan’s flagship social safety initiative designed to support low-income families. By providing regular financial assistance, BISP aims to reduce poverty, improve household welfare, and empower women. Understanding the BISP eligibility criteria for families is essential for those seeking to benefit from the program.

Who Can Apply for BISP?

BISP primarily targets financially vulnerable families who struggle to meet basic needs like food, healthcare, and education. The program prioritizes households that are most in need, ensuring transparency and fair distribution of benefits.

Income-Based Eligibility

A key BISP eligibility criterion is household income. Families with low or no stable income are given priority. The program uses the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) to evaluate household financial status, including income sources, monthly expenses, and living conditions.

Poverty Score Requirement

BISP assigns a poverty score to determine eligibility. Families with a score below the defined threshold qualify for assistance. This score considers factors such as household size, employment status, housing conditions, education levels, and asset ownership.

Female Head of Household

One of the program’s unique features is that benefits are provided to women as heads of households. To qualify, the female head must have a valid Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). This approach empowers women and ensures that financial aid is directly used for household welfare.

Employment and Asset Considerations

Families where members hold government jobs or receive pensions are generally not eligible. Similarly, households owning significant assets such as large properties, commercial businesses, or vehicles may be disqualified. BISP focuses strictly on families with limited means.

Residency and Citizenship

To meet BISP eligibility criteria, applicants must be permanent residents of Pakistan with a valid CNIC. The family’s information is verified through national databases to maintain accuracy and transparency.

Special Consideration for Vulnerable Groups

BISP gives priority to vulnerable segments such as widows, divorced women, persons with disabilities, and families affected by extreme poverty or natural disasters. These groups may qualify for assistance even if their circumstances require additional verification.

Importance of NSER Registration

To be considered for BISP, families must be registered in the NSER survey. This survey collects detailed socio-economic data and is used to assess eligibility. Families with incomplete or outdated information may be declared ineligible.