The Ehsaas Program, launched by the Government of Pakistan, continues to be a vital social safety net for low-income households. In 2025, the initiative has expanded to support more people by enhancing its eligibility criteria, streamlining online registration, and providing timely financial assistance through the 8171 web portal. This article explores who qualifies for the program, how to check your eligibility, and how to register for benefits.
What is the Ehsaas Program?
The Ehsaas Program is a poverty alleviation initiative managed by the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). It offers financial aid to poor and deserving families, especially those with no steady income source. This program includes components like
- Ehsaas Kafalat (quarterly financial aid)
- Ehsaas Emergency Cash
- Ehsaas Ration
- Ehsaas Taleemi Wazaif (scholarships)
As of June 2025, the amount under Ehsaas Kafalat has been increased to PKR 13,500 every three months to accommodate rising living costs.
Eligibility Criteria for Ehsaas Program 2025
To qualify for the Ehsaas Program, applicants must meet strict criteria set by BISP. These are regularly verified through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) and other government databases.
Key Conditions:
- Income Threshold:
The applicant’s monthly household income must be less than PKR 25,000. - No Government Employment:
Neither the applicant nor their spouse should be a government employee or drawing a pension exceeding PKR 10,000. - No International Travel:
Applicants who have travelled abroad or hold a passport are usually ineligible. - PMT Score:
Applicants must have a Poverty Means Test (PMT) score of 32 or lower in the NSER system. - Female-Headed Households:
Preference is given to families where the household is headed by a woman. - Disability or Old Age:
Senior citizens (60+ years) and persons with disabilities are also prioritized. - No Large Business Ownership:
Individuals owning major commercial businesses are not eligible.
These criteria ensure that only the most deserving citizens benefit from the government’s support system.
How to Check Ehsaas Eligibility Online
In 2025, the Ehsaas program has made it easier than ever to check your status. You can verify eligibility through two simple methods:
Method 1: Using the 8171 Web Portal
Follow these steps:
- Enter your 13-digit CNIC number without dashes.
- Solve the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen.
- Click “Submit” to view your eligibility status.
If you are eligible, you will receive details about when and how to collect your payment.
Method 2: SMS Service
- Type your CNIC number (without dashes) in a text message.
- Send it to 8171.
- Wait for a confirmation message indicating your eligibility.
This method is especially useful for individuals who do not have access to the internet.
Ehsaas Program Registration Process
If you are eligible, you can proceed to register either online or by visiting your nearest Ehsaas centre.
Online Registration:
Currently, online registration is available only for selected areas through the NSER Dynamic Survey. You must:
- Fill out the form with personal and family details.
- Provide CNIC, contact information, number of dependents, etc.
- Upload supporting documents (if required).
Upon submission, you will receive a confirmation, and your application will be reviewed by BISP.
Offline Registration (Tehsil Office/One-Window Centre):
For most citizens, offline registration is the primary method. Visit the nearest BISP Tehsil Office or Ehsaas One-Window Centre with the following documents:
- Original CNIC
- Family registration certificate (FRC)
- Utility bills (optional)
- Income or disability certificate (if applicable)
Your information will be entered into the system and matched against the NSER database to assess eligibility.
How to Receive Payments
Eligible beneficiaries will be informed via SMS from 8171. Payments can be collected through:
- Designated retail shops
- HBL Konnect agents
- Bank ATMs (for select beneficiaries)
- BISP payment centers
Make sure your CNIC is biometrically verified through NADRA to avoid delays in receiving your funds.
Conclusion
The Ehsaas Program 2025 offers a lifeline to Pakistan’s most vulnerable populations. With its simplified online portal, strict but fair eligibility criteria, and efficient payment distribution system, it ensures that government support reaches those who truly need it. If you or someone in your family meets the criteria mentioned above, don’t delay—check your eligibility today through the 8171 portal or SMS service and register to avail of the benefits.