Goodbye to Old Pension Limits: Higher Fortnightly Support Rates Begin from February 2026

Published On: January 29, 2026

Goodbye to Old Pension Limits: Higher Fortnightly Support Rates Begin from February 2026

Major reforms in Pakistan’s social welfare and retirement system are set to take effect from early February 2026, bringing relief to thousands of pensioners and low-income families. These changes mainly impact beneficiaries of the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution (EOBI), the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), and Punjab’s Himmat Card scheme.

The new measures aim to eliminate outdated pension restrictions and introduce more frequent and higher financial assistance to help citizens cope with rising inflation.

End of the 15-Year Pension Barrier

A landmark ruling by the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) in January 2026 has removed one of the biggest hurdles for retirees.

Rounding-Off Rule Introduced

Previously, workers who failed to complete the mandatory 15 years of service were denied pensions, even if they were only a few months short. Under the new ruling:

Employees with 14.5 years of service will now be considered eligible.
Their service period will be “rounded up” to 15 years.
Thousands of retirees previously disqualified on technical grounds will now receive pensions.

This reform protects workers’ vested rights and ensures fair treatment.

Higher Support Rates from February 2026

To address inflation and rising living costs, the government has increased support amounts and improved payment schedules.

Himmat Card (Punjab)

The Himmat Card program for senior citizens and persons with disabilities has been revamped:

Earlier payments were mostly quarterly.
From 2026, payments will be issued monthly or in phased intervals.
This ensures consistent support for medical and daily expenses.

BISP Kafaalat Increase

Under the Benazir Income Support Programme:

New installment: Rs. 13,500
Previous range: Rs. 10,500 to Rs. 12,500
Payments will begin in early February 2026 through a phased system to avoid overcrowding.

Old vs. New Pension and Support Limits (2026)

Category	2025 Rate/Rule	February 2026 Update
EOBI Minimum Pension	Rs. 10,000	Rs. 11,500+ (Variable)
Service Requirement	Strict 15 Years	14.5 Years (Rounded)
BISP Payment	Rs. 10,500 – 12,500	Rs. 13,500
Payment Frequency	Mostly Quarterly	Monthly/Fortnightly Phasing

How to Check Your Eligibility

Beneficiaries can verify their updated status using official channels:

EOBI Pensioners

Visit: www.eobi.gov.pk
Or contact your nearest EOBI regional office
Check if you qualify under the new rounding-off rule

BISP Beneficiaries

Send your CNIC to 8171
Or visit 8171.bisp.gov.pk

Himmat Card (Punjab)

Check through the PSER portal
Or visit your local Social Welfare Office

Why These Reforms Matter

These changes reflect a major shift toward a more inclusive and responsive welfare system. By removing rigid service limits and increasing payment frequency, the government aims to: