The “8171” is a shortcode used by BISP (and previously Ehsaas) for its automated eligibility and payment verification system. By simply sending your CNIC to 8171 or entering it on the official web portal, you can quickly determine if you are registered, eligible, and when your payments are ready. This system aims to ensure transparency and easy access to information for beneficiaries, reducing the need to visit physical offices unnecessarily.
How to Check Your BISP 8171 Registration Status by CNIC (2025)
There are two main official ways to check your BISP registration and payment status using your CNIC in 2025:
Method 1: Online via the BISP 8171 Web Portal
This is the most comprehensive method for those with internet access.
- Step 1: Access the Official Portal: Open your internet browser and carefully type the official BISP 8171 web portal address: 8171.bisp.gov.pk. Always use this exact link to avoid fraudulent websites.
- Step 2: Enter Your CNIC Number: On the portal, you will find a designated field. Enter your complete 13-digit Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) number without any dashes or spaces. For example, if your CNIC is
12345-6789012-3, you would enter1234567890123. - Step 3: Complete the Security Captcha: A security code, or “captcha,” will be displayed. This is to ensure you are a human user. Carefully enter the characters or numbers from the image into the provided box. If it’s hard to read, there’s usually a refresh button for a new captcha.
- Step 4: Click “Check Status”: After entering your CNIC and the captcha, click the “Check Status” (معلوم کریں) button.
- Step 5: View Your Status: The portal will display your eligibility and registration status. Possible messages include:
- “Eligible” / “Payment Sent”: You are registered and eligible, and your payment (Rs. 14,500 from July 2025 onwards) has been disbursed.
- “Under Review” / “Processing”: Your application or data is still being processed.
- “Not Eligible”: You do not meet the current BISP eligibility criteria. This might require updating your NSER survey.
- “Visit Tehsil Office”: There’s an issue requiring a visit to your nearest BISP Tehsil Office (e.g., biometric verification, NSER update).
Method 2: Via BISP 8171 SMS Service
This method is quick, simple, and does not require internet access, making it ideal for beneficiaries in remote areas.
- Step 1: Open Your Messaging App: Go to the messaging application on your mobile phone.
- Step 2: Type Your CNIC: In the message body, type your 13-digit CNIC number precisely, without any dashes or spaces.
- Step 3: Send to 8171: Send this message to the official BISP shortcode: 8171.
- Step 4: Await Reply: You will receive an SMS reply from 8171 shortly (usually within a few minutes) confirming your eligibility and registration status. Ensure your mobile SIM is registered in your own name for a successful response.
Eligibility Criteria for BISP Registration in 2025
To be registered and remain eligible for BISP payments (including the new Rs. 14,500 quarterly installment), beneficiaries must generally meet the following key criteria:
- Pakistani Citizenship with Valid CNIC: The applicant must be a Pakistani national with a valid, non-expired Computerized National Identity Card issued by NADRA.
- Female Head of Household (Priority): BISP primarily targets women, especially those who are the head of their household, widows, or divorced women.
- Low Poverty Score (PMT): Families must fall below a specific Poverty Means Test (PMT) score (generally below 32 or 34), which is determined through the National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) survey.
- No Government Employment/Pension: Neither the applicant nor her spouse should be a government employee or receiving a government pension.
- No Significant Assets: The household should not own substantial assets like large landholdings, multiple vehicles, or significant businesses.
- Biometric Verification: The beneficiary must be able to successfully complete biometric (fingerprint) verification at payment collection points.
- Updated NSER Data: Regular participation in and updating of the NSER Dynamic Survey is crucial for continued eligibility, especially if family circumstances change.
How to Register for BISP if You Are Not Yet Registered
If your CNIC check via 8171 shows that you are not registered or not eligible, and you believe you meet the criteria, you can initiate the registration process:
- Step 1: Visit Your Nearest BISP Tehsil Office: BISP registration cannot be done online. You must visit your local BISP Tehsil Office in person. Bring your original valid CNIC, children’s B-forms (if applicable), and any proof of income or utility bills.
- Step 2: Complete the Dynamic Survey (NSER): At the Tehsil Office, you will undergo the Dynamic Survey. BISP staff will help you fill out a detailed questionnaire about your household’s socio-economic status, income, assets, and family members. Provide accurate information.
- Step 3: Biometric Verification: You will be required to provide your fingerprints for biometric verification.
- Step 4: Await Confirmation: After completing the survey, BISP will process your information. You will receive an SMS from 8171 confirming your registration status and whether you are eligible for the program. This process can take some time, so be patient and regularly check your status via the 8171 SMS or web portal.
- Step 5: Collect Payments (If Eligible): Once you receive the confirmation SMS from 8171 stating you are eligible, you can then proceed to collect your payments (Rs. 14,500 from July 2025) from designated BISP payment centers, partner bank branches, or authorized JazzCash/HBL Konnect retailers.
Important Reminders for 2025 Beneficiaries
- Official Channels Only: Always use the official 8171.bisp.gov.pk portal or send SMS to 8171. Be wary of unofficial websites, calls, or messages asking for personal details or money for BISP services.
- No Fees: BISP registration and payment collection are completely free. Never pay anyone who claims to “facilitate” your process. Report any such demands to the BISP helpline.
- Keep CNIC Updated: Ensure your CNIC is always valid and your personal information updated with NADRA.
- Biometric Issues: If you face issues with biometric verification, visit a NADRA center to update your fingerprints before trying again at a BISP payment point.
- Helpline: For any queries or complaints, you can call the BISP toll-free helpline at 0800-26477.
Conclusion
The 8171 Registration Check by CNIC remains the cornerstone for beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme in 2025. Whether you are a new applicant or an existing beneficiary in Taunsa, Punjab, or anywhere else in Pakistan, utilizing the official 8171 web portal or SMS service ensures you can efficiently check your registration status, eligibility, and payment updates. By staying informed and adhering to the official procedures, deserving families can continue to receive the crucial financial support provided by BISP, now with an enhanced quarterly payment of Rs. 14,500.