Simplifying Life Certificates for Pensioners
The government wants to make it easier for sick and hospitalized pensioners to submit their Life Certificates. They’re doing this by sending ‘doorstep executives’ from banks to help.
Going Digital with Life Certificates
The Department of Pensioners Welfare (DOPPW) has given banks an order. It says that they should teach pensioners aged 80 and above how to use digital methods to get their Life Certificates. This involves using facial verification technology.
Step 1: What’s a Life Certificate?
Every year, pensioners need to prove they’re alive to keep getting their pension. This proof is called a ‘Life Certificate.’ Right now, there are 69.76 lakh Central Government pensioners. In 2019, the government told older pensioners, those 80 or older, they could submit their Life Certificates in October instead of November. Younger pensioners still need to do it in November.
Step 2: Getting Your Digital Life Certificate
A recent order from the DOPPW on September 25 says that every pensioner can now get a Digital Life Certificate (DLC) without leaving home. Here’s how:
Step 3: Using Your Smartphone or Bank
You can generate your DLC with facial verification technology. You can do this from your smartphone or visit a bank branch.
Step 4: Doorstep Service
If you’re 80 or older, banks can send their executives to help you with this at your doorstep. This service starts from October 1.
Step 5: Raising Awareness
Banks are also told to spread the word about this new method. They can do this through posters in their branches and ATMs.
