When does pension typically start after retirement?

Pension is due from the day following your retirement. However, the first payment, which includes any arrears, might take 1 to 3 months to process after you submit all the necessary documents.

What is a PPO number and why is it important?

PPO stands for Pension Payment Order. It is a unique 12-digit number issued by the pension sanctioning authority that is essential for processing and receiving your pension.

Can my pension be credited to any bank account?

Pension is usually credited to an account in a specific list of authorized banks designated for pension disbursement. It is best to check with your department which banks are authorized.

What should I do if I haven't received my PPO?

You should follow up with the administrative office of your department or the relevant accounts office (like the AG office for state employees). You can also request a provisional pension if there is a significant delay.

Is a 'Life Certificate' required to receive pension?

Yes, you must submit a Life Certificate (Jeevan Pramaan) to your pension-disbursing bank every year, typically in November, to continue receiving your pension without interruption.

Can a family member claim pension after the pensioner's death?

Yes, the eligible family member (usually the spouse) can claim family pension. They need to submit an application along with the original pensioner's death certificate and other required forms.

What if the bank delays the pension payment?

First, submit a written request to the bank manager. If the issue persists, you can escalate the matter to the bank's higher authorities or the Centralised Pension Processing Centre (CPPC).

Is the commuted portion of the pension paid separately?

Yes, the commuted amount is paid as a lump sum shortly after retirement. The monthly pension is then paid at a reduced rate for a specified period (usually 15 years).

Can I change my pension-disbursing bank later?

Yes, you can transfer your pension account from one authorized bank or branch to another. This requires submitting a formal application to the new bank along with your PPO details.

What are 'arrears' in the context of pension?

Arrears are the accumulated pension payments for the period between your retirement date and the date your first pension is actually credited. This lump sum is usually paid with the first monthly pension.

Pension Request Application Format & Generator Online

Pension Request Application in India: Ensuring Timely Retirement Benefits

Retirement marks the beginning of a well-deserved phase of life, and receiving your pension on time is essential for financial stability. In India, especially for government and PSU employees, pension payments do not always start automatically upon retirement. A formal pension request application to the disbursing authority or bank is often required to initiate the process and ensure smooth credit of monthly payments and arrears.

This guide covers the pension request process in detail—who is eligible, when and where to apply, required documents, common delays, follow-up strategies, and tips to expedite commencement of your pension benefits.

Who Qualifies for Pension in India?

Pension schemes primarily cover:

Central and state government employees
Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) staff under defined benefit plans
Armed forces personnel (Army, Navy, Air Force)
Teachers in government or aided institutions
Employees completing minimum qualifying service (generally 10 years)

Old Pension Scheme (OPS) or National Pension System (NPS) rules apply based on joining date.

When to Submit Your Pension Request

Ideally 3–6 months before retirement to avoid gaps. Submit latest within 1–2 months post-retirement to receive arrears quickly.

Key Steps for Pension Commencement

Complete pension forms (Form 5, 6, etc.) with your department
Obtain Pension Payment Order (PPO) from AG/PAO/PCDA
Prepare and submit pension request to disbursing bank/treasury
Link PPO with your pension bank account
Submit life certificate annually (digital via Jeevan Pramaan)
Receive first payment with arrears

Essential Documents for the Application

Formal pension request letter/application
Copy of Pension Payment Order (PPO)
Retirement/Superannuation order
Bank account details (cancelled cheque/passbook)
Aadhaar and PAN copies
Recent passport-size photographs
Service book or last pay certificate (if required)

Where to Submit the Request

Central government: Designated pension disbursing bank or CPAO
State government: Treasury office or authorised bank
Defence personnel: PCDA (Pension) Allahabad
Many banks accept online submission via portal

Common Causes of Delay

Incomplete or pending pension papers from department
Delay in PPO issuance
Bank account not linked with PPO
Missing life certificate or verification
Discrepancies in service records

Practical Tips for Faster Processing

Start pension paperwork well in advance
Track PPO status through department or CPAO portal
Always obtain acknowledgement of submission
Use registered post or submit in person
Follow up regularly with department and bank
Submit digital life certificate via Jeevan Pramaan app

For related retirement needs, consider an Address Change Affidavit or General Application.

Conclusion

A timely and properly submitted pension request application ensures your retirement benefits reach you without unnecessary delays. It provides the financial security you’ve earned after years of service.

Our free tool generates a professional, authority-ready pension request application instantly—customizable, multilingual, and perfectly formatted. Secure your pension payments smoothly!

For pension guidelines, refer to the Central Pension Accounting Office or your department's portal.

Pension Request Application Generator

Complete Guide to Pension Request Application in India