Who gets the old age pension
The central old age pension, now called the Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana under the Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana, is for people aged 60 and above from Below Poverty Line households. The Centre pays Rs 200 a month for ages 60 to 79 and Rs 500 a month from age 80, and almost every state adds its own top-up. Many states also run their own old age pension schemes with wider eligibility, so the total you receive depends on where you live.
Documents to keep ready
- Aadhaar card
- Age proof such as birth certificate, school certificate, voter ID or a medical age certificate
- BPL card, ration card or income certificate as required by your state
- Bank or post office account passbook (Aadhaar-linked)
- Passport size photograph and residence proof
How to apply
- Find your state’s social welfare or pension portal, or visit your Gram Panchayat, Block office or municipal ward office.
- Fill in the old age pension form with your personal, address and bank details.
- Attach or upload the documents listed above.
- Submit and keep the acknowledgement or application number.
- Officials verify your age, income and residence, sometimes with a field visit.
- Once approved, the pension is paid by Direct Benefit Transfer to your bank or post office account every month or quarter.
Check status and payments
Most states let you track the application on their pension portal with your application number or Aadhaar. You can also see beneficiary lists and payment details on nsap.nic.in under the reports section, and in your bank passbook.
Tips
- Keep your bank account linked to Aadhaar and active, or DBT payments can fail.
- Pensioners in some states need to submit a yearly life certificate.
- Applying is free; avoid agents who ask for money.