Family pension serves as a crucial financial support system for the dependents of a deceased government employee. In India, this scheme is designed to provide a steady monthly income to the spouse, children, or other eligible dependents of an employee who has passed away while in service or after retirement. It is part of the broader pension framework aimed at ensuring financial security for government employees and their families.
In this article, we will explore what family pension is, its eligibility criteria, calculation methods, application procedures, and how it fits into retirement planning. Additionally, we will discuss its relationship with life insurance, the role of the pension payment order (PPO), and the use of a pension calculator to estimate benefits.
Fundamentals of Family Pension
Knowing what family pension is, can help you plan your finances better. Family pension is a post-retirement benefit extended to the dependents of a deceased government employee. The primary objective of this scheme is to provide financial relief to the family, helping them maintain their standard of living in the absence of the primary breadwinner.
The scheme is applicable to government employees, including those in central and state government services, armed forces, and certain public sector enterprises. Family pension is governed by the respective pension rules, such as the Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972.
Types of Family Pension
There are two types of family pension:
Enhanced Family Pension
If the government employee has completed a minimum of seven years of continuous service before their demise, the family is eligible to receive 50% of the last drawn salary for a period of ten years.
Normal Family Pension
After the enhanced period, or if the employee had less than seven years of service, the pension is granted at 30% of the last drawn salary, subject to minimum and maximum pension limits set by the government.
Eligibility for Family Pension
To qualify for family pension, dependents must meet certain eligibility conditions. The primary recipients are:
Spouse
- The widow or widower is the primary beneficiary.
- If the deceased employee was a female, the widower must not have remarried to continue receiving the pension.
- In the case of a childless widow, she can continue receiving the pension even after remarriage, provided her income does not exceed the prescribed limit.
Children
- Unmarried sons, unmarried daughters, or widowed/divorced daughters are eligible until they turn 25 years old or start earning a prescribed income.
- If the child is physically or mentally challenged, they may receive family pension for life.
Dependent Parents
- If no spouse or eligible children survive, the mother and father of the deceased employee may be granted family pension.
- Priority is given to the mother over the father.
Dependent Siblings
- In rare cases, dependent brothers or sisters of a deceased unmarried employee may receive family pension.
How is Family Pension Calculated?
The calculation of family pension depends on the last drawn salary of the deceased employee. The amount is determined as follows:
Normal Family Pension
is 30% of last drawn salary (Basic Pay + DA).
Enhanced Family Pension
is 50% of last drawn salary (for the first 10 years if the employee had served at least 7 years).
For instance, if an employee had a last drawn basic salary of ₹60,000, the family pension would be:
- Enhanced Pension: ₹30,000 per month (for 10 years).
- Normal Pension: ₹18,000 per month (after 10 years).
Pension calculators are useful tools that help estimate family pension amounts based on salary and service duration. Government employees and their dependents can use a pension calculator to determine their expected pension benefits.
How to Apply for Family Pension?
Applying for family pension involves a step-by-step process to ensure smooth disbursement. Here’s how eligible family members can claim it:
Step 1: Obtain the Pension Payment Order (PPO)
- The Pension Payment Order (PPO) is a crucial document issued at the time of an employee’s retirement.
- It contains details such as the pensioner's name, pension amount, and the pension-disbursing bank.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for family pension, the following documents must be submitted:
- Death certificate of the deceased pensioner.
- Relationship proof (Marriage certificate for spouse, Birth certificate for children).
- Identification documents (Aadhaar, PAN card).
- Bank account details of the claimant.
- A copy of the PPO (if available).
Step 3: Submit Application to Pension Disbursing Authority
- The completed application, along with the necessary documents, should be submitted to the pension sanctioning authority or the designated bank.
Step 4: Verification and Sanctioning
- Once verified, the family pension is sanctioned, and the payments begin.
Pension Payment Order (PPO) and Its Importance
A Pension Payment Order (PPO) is a unique 12-digit number issued to every pensioner under the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) scheme or government pension system. It serves as an identity document for all pension-related transactions.
- The PPO ensures the smooth disbursal of pension payments.
- It contains the pensioner’s details, pension amount, and bank details.
- If the PPO is lost, a duplicate can be obtained by submitting an application to the relevant pension authority.
Since PPO is necessary for pension disbursal, families should store it safely and ensure that necessary changes (such as updating the spouse’s name) are made in a timely manner.
The Role of Family Pension in Retirement Planning
While family pension provides financial security, it should not be the sole component of retirement planning. Families must also consider additional sources of income such as savings, investments, and life insurance.
Adding the Security of Life Insurance
- While family pension offers a monthly income, life insurance provides a lump sum that can help cover immediate expenses.
- A term life insurance policy ensures that dependents receive financial assistance even if the deceased was not a government employee.
- Having both a pension plan and a life insurance policy ensures complete financial security for the family.
Family pension is an essential financial support system for the dependents of deceased government employees in India. Understanding what family pension is, how it is calculated, and the importance of documents like the PPO ensures a smooth claims process. Additionally, integrating pension calculators, life insurance, and other financial tools can help dependents secure their future.
By effectively planning for retirement and ensuring adequate coverage, families can safeguard themselves against economic hardships and maintain financial stability in the absence of the primary earner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can the family pension be transferred?
No, family pension is non-transferable and is only payable to eligible dependents.
Is family pension taxable?
Yes, family pension is taxable under Income Tax laws, but a deduction of ₹15,000 or 1/3rd of the pension amount (whichever is lower) is allowed under Section 57(ita) of the Income Tax Act.
Can the spouse continue to receive family pension if remarried?
A widow with no children can continue receiving the pension after remarriage, provided she meets income criteria.
What happens if the PPO is lost?
A duplicate PPO can be reissued upon submission of a written request and supporting documents to the pension disbursing authority.
Customers 
Distributor 
Employee 
