BISP Agents Charging Extra Fees

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) continues to play a vital role in assisting millions of underprivileged families across Pakistan. Through its 8171 payment system, the government ensures financial support to those who need it the most. However, in 2025, reports are once again emerging that some BISP agents and payment centers are demanding extra fees or unauthorized deductions from beneficiaries.

This exploitation leaves deserving families with less than what they are entitled to, creating frustration and distrust. To counter this, the government has issued strict warnings against corrupt practices, while BISP has outlined clear steps that beneficiaries can follow to secure their full payments without deductions.

Why Are Agents Charging Extra?

Despite the government’s efforts to digitalize and streamline payments, certain agents in rural and urban areas misuse their authority. Common reasons include:

• Lack of awareness among beneficiaries about the exact installment amount.
• Weak monitoring at some cash-out points.
• Misuse of biometric systems where agents falsely claim “transaction issues.”
• Exploitation of women beneficiaries who may be less familiar with banking processes.

How Much Is the Actual BISP Payment in 2025?

For October–December 2025, BISP beneficiaries are entitled to receive the fixed quarterly installment directly from the program. Any demand for service charges, “fees,” or “commission” by agents is illegal.

BISP Payment Cycle (2025)	Amount (PKR)	Notes
Quarterly Installment	Rs. 13,500	Paid every three months under Benazir Kafaalat
Taleemi Wazaif (per child)	Rs. 1,500 – 4,000	Based on class level, in addition to main support
Special Relief (if announced)	Variable	Seasonal or emergency relief when needed

👉 Beneficiaries should always confirm the official payment amount before collecting their cash.

How to Secure Your Full BISP Payment in 2025

To protect against fraud and deductions, follow these steps:

1. Verify Payment Beforehand
   • Send your CNIC number to 8171 to confirm eligibility and payment details.
   • Use the official BISP web portal or mobile application for updates.
2. Know the Exact Amount
   • Be aware of the current installment figure. Agents often exploit those who don’t know the amount.
3. Collect from Authorized Centers Only
   • Payments are made through HBL, Bank Alfalah, and designated retail agents. Avoid unofficial outlets.
4. Demand a Printed Receipt
   • Always ask for a transaction slip as proof of the full withdrawal.
5. Use Biometric Verification Carefully
   • Never allow agents to press extra charges for using biometric machines—it’s part of the free service.
6. Report Overcharging Immediately
   • If any agent deducts money, call the BISP helpline 0800-26477 or lodge a complaint at the nearest tehsil office.
   • Complaints can also be filed through 8171 SMS or the BISP grievance portal.

Government Action Against Corrupt Agents

The government has announced strict penalties for agents found guilty of overcharging. Measures include:

• Blacklisting of the agent from the BISP network.
• Cancellation of contracts with retailers involved in corruption.
• Possible criminal proceedings under fraud laws.

BISP has also deployed monitoring teams to conduct surprise checks at payment centers. Beneficiaries are encouraged to record videos or take pictures as evidence if they face exploitation.

Public Awareness Campaign BISP Agents Charging Extra Fees

To strengthen transparency, BISP is running awareness drives in villages and urban centers. Beneficiaries are being educated about:

• The exact quarterly payment amount.
• Free-of-cost nature of the payment process.
• Helpline numbers and complaint procedures.

This initiative is expected to reduce the space for exploitation by dishonest agents.

Conclusion

While the BISP 8171 program has brought hope to millions of families in Pakistan, the challenge of agents charging extra fees continues in 2025. The solution lies in awareness, vigilance, and reporting. Beneficiaries must know their rights, demand receipts, and immediately report any fraudulent behavior.

The government’s recent crackdown is a strong signal that corruption will not be tolerated. If citizens remain alert and use official complaint channels, they can secure their full payments without deductions and ensure the program serves its true purpose—lifting vulnerable families out of poverty.