If you or a family member is a pensioner, this news is vital. The Central Government has issued a new directive to banks handling pension disbursements, aiming to ease the process for elderly pensioners.
The government’s order mandates banks to arrange for ‘doorstep executives’ who will assist sick or hospitalized pensioners in submitting their life certificates.
Digital Life Certificates for All Pensioners
Pensioners can now create their digital life certificates using face verification technology.
Every year, pensioners must provide proof of their continued existence to receive their pension, known as the ‘Life Certificate.’
Currently, there are approximately 69.76 lakh Central Government pensioners. In 2019, the Central Government had directed banks to allow super senior pensioners to submit their Life Certificates starting from October 1, instead of November.
Convenience of Home Submission
Pensioners under the age of 80 usually submit their Life Certificates in November. However, a recent order from the Department of Pension
and Pensioners Welfare (DOPPW) issued on September 25 states that every pensioner can now generate a Digital Life Certificate (DLC) through face recognition technology.
This can be done from the comfort of their home using a smartphone or by visiting the bank branch.
Banks are encouraged to offer the option of submitting life certificates through doorstep banking executives.
Starting October 1 for Pensioners Above 80
The order further recommends that banks instruct their branches to provide this digital life certificate facility to pensioners aged 80 and above starting from October 1.
Banks are also advised to promote awareness of this facility through various platforms, including posters at bank branches and ATMs.
