Social Security Schemes for Senior Citizens, Widows and Persons with Disabilities (NSAP 2026)

Who needs this service? (Eligibility)

• Senior Citizens: Age 60+ years, living Below Poverty Line (BPL).

• Widows: Age 40+ years, living Below Poverty Line (BPL).

• Persons with Disabilities: Age 18+ years, 80% or more disability, living Below Poverty Line (BPL).

Required Documents

Keep these ready before applying. All documents must match your Aadhaar details exactly.

• Aadhaar Card (Mandatory for identity & bank linking)

• BPL Card / Ration Card (Proof of economic status)

• Bank Passbook (First page with Account No. & IFSC code)

• Passport Size Photographs (2-3 copies)

• Age Proof (Voter ID, Birth Certificate, or School Certificate)

• Mobile Number (Active & linked to Aadhaar)

• Specific Documents:

  • For Widows: Husband’s Death Certificate.

  • For Disability: Disability Certificate (80%+) from a Government Medical Board/CMO.

Online Application Process (Step-by-Step)

Note: While NSAP is a central scheme, many states have their own portals. The most universal method for citizens is via the UMANG App or their State Social Welfare Portal.

Method 1: Using the UMANG Mobile App (Easiest)

1. Download App: Install “UMANG” from Google Play Store or App Store.

2. Register: Open app → Click “Register” → Enter Mobile Number → Enter OTP.

3. Search Scheme: In the search bar, type “NSAP” (National Social Assistance Programme).

4. Apply: Click on “Apply Online” (if enabled for your state) or “Scheme Details”.

5. Fill Details: Enter Name, Father/Husband’s Name, Aadhaar, and Bank Account details.

6. Upload: Upload clear photos of required documents (keep file size under 50kb-100kb as requested).

7. Submit: Click “Submit” and note down the Application Reference Number.

Method 2: State Government Portals

If UMANG directs you to a state portal, search Google for: "[Your State] Social Security Pension Apply Online".

• Example: In Bihar, use the SSPMIS portal; in UP, use the SSPY portal.

• Look for the link saying “Apply for Old Age/Widow Pension”.

• Fill the form → Upload Documents → Submit.

Offline Application Process (Recommended for Rural Areas)

If you are uncomfortable with online forms, this is the most reliable method.

1. Visit Local Office: Go to your Gram Panchayat Office (Village Head), Block Development Office (BDO), or Municipal Committee Office (Urban areas).

2. Collect Form: Ask for the “NSAP Pension Application Form” (Old Age/Widow/Disability).

3. Fill & Attach: Fill the form in block letters. Attach photocopies of all documents listed above.

4. Verification: Submit the form to the Social Welfare Officer or Panchayat Secretary.

5. Receipt: Always ask for a stamped acknowledgement receipt with a date. This is your proof.

6. Approval: Your application will be verified by the Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha. Once approved, the pension usually starts within 3-4 months.

How to Check Application Status

You can track your status centrally on the official NSAP website.

1. Go to Official Portal: https://nsap.nic.in

2. Navigate: Click on the “Reports” tab or look for “Beneficiary Search”.

3. Track Application:

   • Click on “Application Tracker” (Direct Link: https://nsap.nic.in/applicationTrack1.do)

   • Enter your Application Number.

   • Type the Captcha code and click “Search”.

4. Status Meanings:

   • Pending: Still with the verification officer.

   • Sanctioned: Approved. Payment will start soon.

   • Rejected: Check the reason (usually document mismatch).

Common Problems & Solutions

Official Helplines

• National Helpline (Toll-Free): 1800-111-555 (check working hours 10 AM – 5 PM)

• Official Website: nsap.nic.in

• Email Support: helpdesk.nsap@nic.in

(This information is from official sources as of January 2026. Always verify on the official portal for the latest updates.)