BISP Poverty Score Update 2026 – Eligibility Rules, Approval Process & Payment Details
The BISP Poverty Score 2026 update is a crucial development for families seeking financial assistance under the Benazir Income Support Programme. As eligibility decisions and payment approvals are being finalized based on updated NSER poverty scores, ensuring that support reaches the most deserving households amid rising inflation and economic pressure.
What Is the BISP Poverty Score?
The poverty score is a numerical value calculated through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) survey. It reflects a household’s financial condition by analyzing income sources, family size, education level, assets, employment status, and living standards. BISP uses this score to decide whether a family qualifies for Benazir Kafalat cash assistance and related schemes.
BISP Poverty Score Criteria for 2026
In 2026 phase, the government has slightly refined eligibility thresholds to include more vulnerable families affected by recent economic challenges.
| Category | Poverty Score Range | Eligibility Status |
|---|---|---|
| Extremely Poor | 0 – 16.99 | Fully Eligible |
| Poor & Vulnerable | 17 – 32 | Eligible (Priority Review) |
| Low-Middle Income | 32.01 – 40 | Conditional / Under Review |
| Above Threshold | Above 40 | Not Eligible |
Families falling within the approved score range are shortlisted automatically for payment processing.
Who Qualifies for BISP Payments in 2026?
Households meeting the following conditions are approved for payments:
- Valid CNIC verified by NADRA
- Updated NSER dynamic survey data
- No government job in the household
- No ownership of luxury vehicles or large property
- Poverty score within the approved limit
Priority is given to widows, women-headed households, persons with disabilities, elderly individuals, and daily wage earners.
How BISP Payments Are Approved After Poverty Score Check
Once the poverty score is verified, BISP cross-checks CNIC data, biometric records, and household details. Approved beneficiaries receive an 8171 SMS confirmation, after which payments are released through HBL Connect, partner banks, or designated cash centers. Biometric verification remains mandatory at the time of withdrawal.
How to Check Your Poverty Score & Eligibility
Beneficiaries can check their status by:
- Visiting the 8171 web portal and entering their CNIC
- Sending their CNIC number via SMS to 8171
- Visiting the nearest BISP Tehsil Office for manual verification
Final Thoughts
The BISP Poverty Score Update 2026 plays a key role in ensuring transparency and fair distribution of government assistance. Families are advised to keep their NSER data updated and regularly check their eligibility to avoid missing payments.
