The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has declared a significant policy modification that mandates all pensioners to complete a compulsory annual renewal of their Pensioner Certificate starting in April 2026.
This initiative is part of wider efforts to protect the integrity of the national pension system and to ensure that pension disbursements are made solely to eligible and living beneficiaries.
According to the new guidelines, every pensioner, whether retiring mandatorily at the age of 60 or voluntarily from the age of 55, is required to renew their Pensioner Certificate annually, specifically during their birth month, to ensure continuous pension payments.
SSNIT has stated that the updated system aims to prevent invalid pension payments, improve verification processes, and bolster the long-term viability of the pension fund.
This initiative also aligns with global best practices in pension management, as biometric and digital verification increasingly play a crucial role in preventing fraud within social protection programs.
To facilitate accessibility, SSNIT has introduced various channels for the renewal process.
Pensioners can complete the renewal through the SSNIT Mobile App using facial recognition, via the SSNIT Virtual Branch, at partner banks, or at any SSNIT branch across the nation.
Notably, pensioners facing mobility issues can request home verification by reaching out to the SSNIT Call Centre.
Additionally, pensioners will receive advance notifications at least one month prior to their birth month through SMS, email, or other approved communication methods.
“We urge all Pensioners to adhere to this arrangement,” SSNIT stated in a press release.
The Trust has assured that the streamlined process will enhance accountability while ensuring ease of access for beneficiaries throughout the country.
