As part of Pakistan’s continuing efforts to protect vulnerable families, the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has launched a strong financial inclusion instrument called the Benazir Social Protection Account. The project is intended to make the disbursement of social welfare money safer, faster, and more transparent, particularly for women belonging to poor households.
This article will discuss what the Benazir Social Protection Account is, how it operates, who can get one, and how to handle it in 2025.
What is the Benazir Social Protection Account?
The Benazir Social Protection Account is a separate bank account granted to beneficiaries of the BISP, particularly of the Benazir Kafalat Programme. The aim of this account is to allow women to receive government support safely directly into a bank-held digital account.
These accounts are biometrically authenticated, tied to the CNIC of the beneficiary, and enable maximum control and transparency in the disbursement of funds.
Features of the Social Protection Account
Direct Cash Transfers: BISP payments are deposited directly into the beneficiary’s account.- ATM & Bank Access: Withdrawal can be made through any ATM or partner bank branch.
- Secure & Biometric Verification: Only the registered woman (on the basis of her CNIC and fingerprint) can access the money.
- No Deductions or Agent Fees: Payment in full is guaranteed without third-party agent involvement.
- Mobile Banking Facility: Mobile wallet integration facility is also provided in some locations.
Who is Eligible to Open a Benazir Social Protection Account?
To be eligible, you should:
- Be registered and verified through the Benazir Kafalat Program.
- Possess an active Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
- Be a female head of the household or the designated woman in the family.
Undergo the NADRA verification and NSER survey eligibility test.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Open a Benazir Social Protection Account (2025)
If you become eligible for receiving BISP payment, here’s a step-by-step guide to opening your Benazir Social Protection Account:
- Receive Eligibility SMS
You will receive a confirmation message from 8171 if you are shortlisted for BISP. - Go to a Partner Bank
Visit the nearest participating bank (e.g., HBL, Bank Alfalah, or other partner banks as announced by BISP).
Bring your original CNIC.
- Biometric Verification
Your thumbprint and CNIC will be verified by NADRA at the bank counter. - Account Opening
Once verified, the bank will open your Benazir Social Protection Account and issue an ATM card or provide mobile wallet details. - Receive Payments
After activation, your BISP installments will be automatically transferred to this account every month or quarter.
How to Check Balance or Withdraw Cash?
You can access your account in the following ways:
- ATM Withdrawal: Withdraw from your issued ATM card at any HBL/Bank Alfalah ATM.
- Bank Branch: Approach a bank with CNIC and thumbprint.
- Mobile App (optional): If available, utilize a mobile wallet app tied to your account.
- Advantages of the Benazir Social Protection Account
Greater financial empowerment for women. - Encourages digital banking and financial inclusion in rural regions.
- Guarantees transparency in disbursement of funds.
- Eliminates corruption, delays, and payment deductions.
Key Reminders for 2025
Do not give your PIN or ATM card to anyone.
Always check payment messages from 8171 only.
In case of any deduction or fraud, report to BISP helpline (0800-26477).
Update your CNIC with NADRA for easy verification.
Benazir Social Protection Account
Benazir Social Protection Account is a revolutionary measure towards empowering women and enhancing the transparency of Pakistan’s social welfare system. By allowing women to access financial services directly, the government ensures each rupee goes into the deserving hands it intended for.
If you are enrolled in the BISP program or intend to apply for it in 2025, obtaining this account must be your first priority.
