The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has officially entered a new digital era in February 2026. Under a major reform initiative, the government has started shifting beneficiaries away from the traditional POS agent-based cash system to a Social Protection Wallet, allowing families to receive financial assistance directly into their own bank accounts.

This move is being described as one of the biggest transparency and convenience upgrades in Pakistan’s social welfare system. In this article, you will clearly understand the activation status, account activation process, benefits, and official verification methods for February 2026.

BISP Digital Wallet Rollout Status – February 2026

After a successful pilot phase during late 2024 and 2025, BISP has now launched the full-scale activation of 10 million digital bank wallets across Pakistan.

According to official confirmation by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, all BISP quarterly stipends and subsidies will be distributed exclusively through digital wallets starting March 2026.

Key Highlights

• Digital wallets are now live for eligible beneficiaries
• POS cash disbursement system is being phased out
• All future payments will go directly into bank accounts

Free SIM Cards Linked With BISP Accounts

To ensure smooth communication and access to mobile banking, the government has also started free SIM distribution for registered BISP beneficiaries.

These SIM cards are:

• Linked directly to the beneficiary’s digital wallet
• Used for official SMS alerts and balance notifications
• Required for accessing mobile banking and wallet services

If you are already registered under BISP, you may receive instructions soon regarding SIM collection.

How to Activate Your BISP Digital Bank Account 2026

If your digital account exists but is not active yet, you must complete biometric verification. Follow these official steps carefully.

Step 1: Visit Your Assigned Bank Branch

You must visit the designated bank branch assigned to your district. Partner banks include:

• HBL
• Bank Alfalah
• Other BISP partner banks as notified locally

Step 2: Biometric Verification

Your account will only activate after successful fingerprint verification at the bank branch. Without biometric verification, payments cannot be released.

Step 3: Receive Your PayPak Debit Card

After verification, the bank will issue a pre-activated PayPak Debit Card in a sealed envelope.

Step 4: Generate Your ATM PIN

You will be guided to:

• Set your ATM PIN using the bank ATM or help desk
• Secure your card before leaving the branch

Benefits of the New BISP Digital Account System

With digital accounts activated in February 2026, beneficiaries no longer need to stand in long queues or rely on agents.

Major Benefits

• Withdraw cash from any ATM across Pakistan
• Use Raast for instant and free money transfers
• Check balance via bank helpline or official Social Wallet app
• Improved transparency and reduced fraud risks
• Full control of funds in your own bank account

This system empowers beneficiaries, especially women, by giving them direct financial access.

Official BISP Verification & Support Channels

Use only official methods to check your eligibility or payment status.

Service	Action
Eligibility Check	Visit BISP 8171 Web Portal and enter your CNIC
SMS Service	Send your 13-digit CNIC to 8171
Helpline	Call 0800-26477 for activation or payment complaints

Important Safety Warning for Beneficiaries

BISP has issued a strong warning regarding fraud attempts.

• Never share your ATM PIN or OTP with anyone
• BISP officials will never call to ask for sensitive details
• Official messages will only come from 8171

If you receive suspicious calls or messages, report them immediately through the helpline.

Final Thoughts

The activation of BISP digital bank accounts in February 2026 marks a historic shift towards transparency, dignity, and financial inclusion. By moving away from agent-based payments, beneficiaries can now manage their funds securely and independently.

Stay connected with us to receive accurate updates on upcoming BISP phases, payment schedules, and eligibility criteria.