Life Certificate: Pensioners are required to submit a life certificate every year to continue receiving their pension without interruption. For many senior citizens, visiting a bank or government office and standing in long queues can be difficult, particularly because of age or health-related concerns.
To make the process easier, several digital and doorstep facilities are now available. Eligible pensioners can submit their Digital Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan) without necessarily travelling to a bank or government office.
Here are four convenient options pensioners can use.
1. Submit Life Certificate Through Face Authentication
Face authentication is one of the easiest digital options for pensioners who have access to a smartphone. It does not require a separate fingerprint scanner or other biometric device.
Pensioners can download the AadhaarFaceRD and Jeevan Pramaan Face App from the Google Play Store. After entering the required details, such as the Aadhaar number and pension-related information, the pensioner can use the smartphone’s front camera for face authentication.
Once the face is successfully verified, the Digital Life Certificate can be generated and submitted electronically.
2. Get Help Through Postman at Home
Senior citizens who are uncomfortable using smartphones can also make use of the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) doorstep service.
Under this facility, pensioners can request a postman to visit their home. The postman carries the required biometric equipment and completes the verification process using the pensioner’s fingerprint.
The entire procedure can generally be completed within a few minutes, making it a useful option for elderly or mobility-challenged pensioners. A nominal service charge of around ₹70 may apply.
3. Use Doorstep Banking Services
Several public-sector banks provide doorstep banking facilities for customers, including eligible pensioners.
Depending on the bank, seniors can request the service through the bank’s mobile application or designated toll-free number. A bank representative can then visit the pensioner’s residence and assist with the required documentation and life certificate-related formalities.
This option can be especially helpful for pensioners who find it difficult to travel to their bank branch.
4. Submit Life Certificate Through Video KYC
Some banks have introduced video-based life certificate services, allowing pensioners to complete verification remotely.
For example, banks such as State Bank of India (SBI) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) have offered video-based facilities for eligible customers. Pensioners can check their bank’s official website for the availability of a Video Life Certificate option.
During the video interaction, a bank official verifies the pensioner’s identity and checks the required documents, including Aadhaar-related information, as per the applicable process.
No Need to Stand in Long Queues
The availability of face authentication, postman services, doorstep banking and video verification has made life certificate submission considerably more convenient for many senior citizens.
These options can be particularly useful for elderly, sick or mobility-limited pensioners, allowing them to complete the process from home instead of making a difficult trip to a bank or government office.
However, the exact procedure, charges and eligibility may vary between banks and service providers. Pensioners should always check the latest official instructions before submitting their life certificate.