20% increase in pension: Check if your family members are eligible

Pension perks for 80+: Central government pensioners turning 80 will now enjoy an increased financial cushion, thanks to a recent clarification from the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW).

An office memorandum issued earlier this month, outlines specific guidelines for the additional pension aimed at providing enhanced support to senior citizens who have dedicated their lives to public service.

This initiative recognises their contributions and ensures they receive adequate assistance in their golden years.

"The undersigned is directed to say that as per the provisions of Sub Rule 6 of Rule 44 of CCS(Pension) Rules 2021, after reaching the age of eighty, retired government servants will receive additional financial benefits," The office memorandum stated.

Age-based pension enhancements

The structure of the additional pension is tiered based on age, enabling a progressive increase in support as pensioners age. Those aged 80 to less than 85 years will receive an additional 20 per cent of their basic pension or compassionate allowance. For pensioners aged 85 to less than 90 years, the additional amount increases to 30 per cent.

Those between 90 and less than 95 years will receive 40 per cent, while pensioners aged 95 to less than 100 years will benefit from an additional 50 per cent. Finally, those who reach the milestone of 100 years or more will receive a full 100 per cent of their basic pension or compassionate allowance.

For example, a pensioner who turns 80 on August 20, 2024, will start receiving the additional pension effective from August 1, 2024, while one born on August 1, 1944, will also qualify from the same date. The memorandum emphasises that the additional pension will be disbursed from the first day of the calendar month in which the pensioner’s birthday falls.

The DoPPW urges all relevant ministries, departments, and banks to implement these provisions effectively, ensuring that pensioners are informed and receive their due benefits without delay.