Every November, thousands of retirees make their way to banks and post offices to submit their Life Certificate, a mandatory proof-of-existence document required to continue receiving their pension. Submitting a Life Certificate is essential to ensure uninterrupted pension payments and to safeguard against fraudulent claims.

What is a Life Certificate?

A Pramaan or Digital Life Certificate is an Aadhaar-based, biometric-enabled certificate designed specifically for pensioners. Each certificate is unique, generated using personal details such as your Aadhaar number and biometric information, ensuring authenticity and security.

A life certificate verifies that the pensioner is alive and eligible to receive pension benefits. Pension Disbursing Agencies (PDAs), banks, post offices, or other government bodies must authenticate this certificate before crediting the pension amount to the beneficiary.

Submission dates:

  • General pensioners: November 1 – November 30
  • Super-seniors (80+ years): October 1 – November 30

Documents required

Keep these ready before visiting the bank/post office or generating the certificate online:

  • Aadhaar Number
  • Mobile Number
  • Pension Payment Order (PPO) Number
  • Pension Account Number
  • Bank Details
  • Biometric authentication (iris or fingerprint)

Steps to get a life certificate online

  • Through Jeevan Pramaan Portal
  • Using a biometric device attached to your laptop or smartphone,
  • You can access the Jeevan Pramaan or Digital Life Certificate government portal at jeevanpramaan.gov.in.
  • Click "Get a Certificate" once you're there. You will be able to select between a PC and a mobile device.
  • Once you click on it, you can download the application.
  • Here, you need to fill in the details like the Aadhaar and the PPO number.
  • Put in the biometric data (scan fingerprint or iris).
  • Once verified, your digital life certificate will be stored as part of the Life Certificate Depository.
  • The pension disbursing agency, your bank or post office, can easily access it without you having to once leave the comfort of your home.

Via UMANG app

  • Open the UMANG app.
  • Select Jeevan Pramaan → Generate Life Certificate.
  • Enter Aadhaar + PPO number.
  • Complete biometric verification.
  • The certificate is generated and stored for your PDA to access.

Steps to check Life Certificate status

  • To download or check your Digital Life Certificate status:
  • Visit: jeevanpramaan.gov.in/ppouser/login
  • Use your Jeevan Pramaan ID to track or download the certificate.

Offline submission

  • Visit your nearest bank, post office, or Citizen Service Centre (CSC).
  • Carry Aadhaar, PPO, and other required documents.
  • Fill out the physical Life Certificate form.
  • Staff will verify and record your submission.
  • You’re done for the year.