All You Need to Know About Checking Your Eligibility for BISP 8171 via SMS
Pakistan’s Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) is a major social safety program that helps low-income families by giving them money. One of its key services is the 8171 SMS service, which allows citizens to conveniently check their eligibility status from anywhere in the country.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to check your BISP 8171 eligibility via SMS, discuss what responses you might receive, and share tips to ensure the process goes smoothly.
What is BISP 8171?
The BISP 8171 service is a part of the Ehsaas Program that enables citizens to find out whether they qualify for financial assistance. By simply sending a 13-digit CNIC number (Computerized National Identity Card) to 8171, eligible applicants can get real-time updates on their registration status without visiting any office physically.
This service is especially helpful for individuals living in remote or rural areas who may not have internet access or find it difficult to travel to BISP centers.
Who Can Apply for BISP?
The BISP program is mainly targeted at:
- Widows
- Orphans
- Persons with disabilities
- Low-income families
- Daily wage workers
- Elderly individuals without support
The government uses a Poverty Means Test (PMT) score to determine eligibility. If your household’s PMT score falls below a certain threshold, you may qualify for regular cash support.
Step-by-Step Guide to Check Eligibility via SMS
Follow these steps to get an SMS letting you know if you are eligible for the BISP 8171 program:
1. Open the Messaging App
Navigate to the messaging application on your mobile device, which is responsible for transmitting text messages (SMS).
2. Type Your CNIC Number
Type your 13-digit CNIC number into the message body. Make sure there are no spaces or lines in the text. As an example,
Copies
Edit
1234567890123
3. Send It to 8171
Send the message to 8171. This address is the official BISP/Ehsaas helpline number.
4. Wait for the Response
Within a few minutes, you will receive a reply that tells you your current eligibility status. The possible replies could be:
- You must be eligible: You can get financial help, and you can get your money from the bank or payment place closest to you.
- You are not eligible: You don’t meet the program criteria at the moment.
- Under verification: Your application is being reviewed, and you will receive a final decision soon.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Make sure that your CNIC is valid and filed in your name.
- Use the SIM card that is registered in your name to avoid delays or rejects.
- Ensure your mobile has enough balance to send a text message.
- Only use 8171 – do not trust any other number or unofficial websites asking for your personal information.
What to Do If You Are Eligible
If your SMS reply confirms that you are eligible for BISP support, you can collect your financial aid through one of the following channels:
- Designated payment centers
- Bank Alfalah and HBL are two examples of partner banks.
Biometric ATMs, in some cases
You will need to bring your original CNIC and possibly go through fingerprint verification to receive the funds.
What If You Are Not Eligible?
If you are informed that you are not eligible, you may still have options:
Visit your nearest BISP or Ehsaas registration center to update your information or file a new application.
In case your income or household conditions have changed, you can request a reassessment.
You can also use the 8171 web portal to recheck or update your eligibility online (if you have internet access).
Why Use the SMS Service?
There are many advantages of using the 8171 SMS service, including:
- In addition, it is easy and quick. Accessible – Works from basic mobile phones
- No internet required
- Free or low-cost SMS
This makes it one of the most efficient tools for rural populations or those who are not familiar with online systems.
Final Thoughts
The BISP 8171 SMS service is a quick and convenient way to check your eligibility for one of Pakistan’s most important financial aid programmes. Sending your CNIC number to 8171 will let you know if you or your family are qualified for regular cash help. This method not only makes it easy for people in remote places to get social welfare services, but it also saves time.
If you haven’t checked your status yet, grab your CNIC and send a message today — you might be eligible for support that can improve your quality of life.
For More Information Click Here