The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is one of Pakistan’s largest social safety net initiatives, aimed at providing financial assistance to low-income families. With the introduction of the 8171 SMS service, beneficiaries can easily check their eligibility status using their CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) number.
In this article, we’ll guide you through what BISP 8171 CNIC Check means, how to use it, and answer some common questions about the process.

What is BISP 8171?
BISP 8171 is an SMS-based service launched by the Benazir Income Support Programme to make it easier for beneficiaries to:
- Check their eligibility status
- Confirm their registration
- Receive updates about payments
This service is part of the government’s efforts to ensure transparency and provide easy access to information for financially vulnerable families.
How to Check BISP Eligibility via CNIC and 8171?
Checking your BISP status is very simple. Follow these steps:
✅ Step 1: Take your original CNIC number.
✅ Step 2: Open the messaging app on your mobile phone.
✅ Step 3: Type your 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes).
✅ Step 4: Send this message to 8171.
✅ Step 5: You will receive a reply SMS with your eligibility status and details about your payment, if applicable.
Online BISP 8171 CNIC Check
Apart from the SMS service, BISP also offers an online portal (8171.pass.gov.pk) where you can:
- Enter your CNIC number
- Provide the required CAPTCHA code
- Click submit to view your status
This is very helpful for those who have internet access and prefer to check details on their smartphones or computers.
Who Can Apply for BISP Assistance?
Eligibility for BISP is determined based on a poverty score calculated through a National Socio-Economic Registry (NSER) survey. Generally, families that:
- Have low or no income
- Are below the poverty threshold
- Are widows, orphans, or persons with disabilities
Common Issues with BISP 8171 CNIC Check
Some common problems people face:
- Invalid CNIC: Make sure your CNIC is valid and registered with NADRA.
- No Response: Network issues or high traffic can delay SMS responses; try again later.
- Wrong Information: If you suspect your record is incorrect, visit your nearest BISP Tehsil office for assistance.
Final Words
The BISP 8171 CNIC Check service has made it much easier for millions of deserving families to verify their eligibility and get timely updates about their payments. This is part of Pakistan’s broader commitment to digital inclusion and social welfare.
If you think you qualify but haven’t registered yet, visit your nearest BISP registration center or check your status online today.
Useful Links:
- Official BISP Website: https://www.bisp.gov.pk
- 8171 Online Portal: https://8171.pass.gov.pk
Tip: Always keep your CNIC updated with NADRA to avoid any issues with your payments or eligibility.