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The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has introduced a new policy requiring all pensioners to renew their Pensioner Certificates annually, starting April 2026.
According to SSNIT, the initiative is aimed at protecting the integrity of the national pension system by ensuring that payments are made only to eligible and living retirees. Under the updated arrangement, all pensioners—whether they retire compulsorily at age 60 or voluntarily from age 55—must complete the renewal each year during their birth month to avoid disruptions in their pension benefits.
The Trust explained that the revised verification process will help eliminate wrongful payments, improve efficiency, and reinforce the long-term stability of the pension fund. The move reflects global best practices, particularly as biometric and digital methods become vital tools in preventing fraud within social protection systems.
To make the renewal process accessible, SSNIT has provided several options: pensioners may renew through the SSNIT Mobile App using facial recognition, via the SSNIT Virtual Branch, at designated partner banks, or by visiting any SSNIT office nationwide. Those with mobility limitations can request home verification through the SSNIT Call Centre.
Pensioners will also receive reminders at least a month before their birth month through SMS, email, or other approved channels.
“We urge all pensioners to adhere to this new arrangement,” SSNIT said in a statement, adding that the updated system will improve accountability while remaining convenient and user-friendly.
Source: citinews
