The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has made an important adjustment: the PMT (Proxy Means Test) Score for widows, divorced women, and families with children who have special needs has increased from 32 to 35. This seemingly small change could have a significant impact, allowing more families in Pakistan to qualify for financial support.
The BISP aims to help vulnerable individuals facing difficult circumstances. In particular, this shift in the PMT Score will help more families of widows, divorced women, and disabled children access essential financial aid.
What Is the PMT Score?
The PMT Score is a number used by the BISP to assess a family’s financial status. It helps the government determine who is eligible for cash assistance programs. This score ranges from 0 to 100, with lower scores indicating higher poverty levels.
Previously, most families could only qualify if their PMT Score was below 32. However, with the recent update, the threshold has been raised to 35 for specific groups, expanding the pool of potential beneficiaries.
Why Was the PMT Score Increased to 35?
The government of Pakistan raised the PMT Score to 35 in an effort to provide better support to vulnerable families, especially those facing extra challenges. Inflation and the rising cost of living have made it harder for widows, divorced women, and parents of disabled children to make ends meet. By raising the PMT threshold, BISP can now offer aid to a broader range of people who need it most.
Who Benefits from This Change?
This change specifically targets three groups:
- Widows: Women who have lost their husbands.
- Divorced Women: Women who have gone through a divorce.
- Families with Disabled Children: Families caring for children with disabilities.
If you belong to one of these categories and your PMT Score is 35 or below, you may be eligible for additional support from BISP.
How to Qualify for the New PMT Score
To qualify for the updated PMT Score, these are the necessary steps:
- Widows: Must present a death certificate for their late husband.
- Divorced Women: Must provide divorce papers.
- Families with Disabled Children: Must register their disabled child with NADRA.
Once your records are updated with NADRA, you will be considered for the new eligibility.
Impact on BISP Payments
With the PMT Score now set at 35, more families can benefit from the Benazir Kafaalat Program, which provides Rs. 13,500 every three months to eligible households. This financial assistance can be used for food, education, healthcare, and other essential needs.
If your score was previously between 32 and 35, you might now be eligible for BISP’s support. If your score is lower than 35 and you fall into one of the eligible categories, this increase could mean financial relief.
How to Check Your PMT Score
There are two easy ways to check if you qualify:
- Online Portal:
- Visit the BISP website (bisp.gov.pk).
- Enter your CNIC number to see your eligibility status.
- SMS Service:
- Send your CNIC number to 8171.
- You’ll receive a reply with your PMT Score and eligibility status.
FAQs
What is the new PMT Score for BISP?
The PMT Score has been raised to 35 for widows, divorced women, and families with disabled children.
How do I know if I qualify?
Check your PMT Score online or via SMS. If it’s 35 or below and you’re in the target group, you qualify after NADRA registration.
Can men get this benefit?
Men may qualify for BISP programs, but this specific change applies to widows, divorced women, and families with disabled children.
What if my PMT Score is over 35?
You won’t qualify for this specific update, but other BISP programs may still be available to you.
Conclusion
The increase in the PMT Score from 32 to 35 represents a positive change for many Pakistani families, particularly widows, divorced women, and parents of children with disabilities. If you belong to these groups, it’s time to update your records with NADRA and check your eligibility for this vital financial support. The BISP is here to help, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to ease your financial burdens.
Hamza Ali is the founder of Mylescobill.com.pk, a platform dedicated to providing easy and convenient ways to check your LESCO (Lahore Electric Supply Company) bills online. With a focus on simplifying the process of utility bill payments, Hamza shares valuable tips and guides to help users manage their electricity bills with ease. Stay connected with Hamza for the latest updates on online bill payment solutions.