What Is a PMT Score and Why It Matters?
The Proxy Means Test (PMT) score is a figure assigned to families in Pakistan that is used by the government to determine who should get money from welfare programs most. If you are looking to get aid from BISP, Ehsaas, or other welfare programs, figuring out what your PMT score is the starting point. This score is calculated based on your income, family size, education, property, electricity bills, and so on.
The lower your PMT score, the higher your chances of qualifying for monthly cash grants, ration discounts, and subsidies on utilities.
How Is PMT Score Calculated?
The state gathers data on your household using a national census known as the NSER (National Socio-Economic Registry). Based on the census, your PMT score is determined using:
- The amount of money that your household makes
- The number of individuals who live in your household
- The type of house you live in
- Amounts of utility bills
- Your line of work or employment status
- Properties such as vehicles, land, or business
PMT scores range from 0 to 100. The lower scores mean the higher need.
PMT Score Ranges and What They Mean
| PMT Score | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 0 – 32 | Eligible for BISP, Ehsaas cash programs |
| 33 – 40 | May qualify for ration or utility subsidies |
| 41 and above | Not eligible for most support programs |
| 32 – 37 | Might still qualify if widowed or disabled |
PMT If you’re just below the threshold, don’t give up hope. There are means to correct your record and boost your chances.
Easy Ways to Check Your PMT Score
You can check your PMT score using any of these four simple methods:
1. SMS to 8171
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Open your mobile messaging app
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Type PMT<space>Your CNIC Number
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Send it to 8171
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You’ll receive a reply with your score and eligibility
2. Online Portal
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Visit the official BISP or PMT score check website
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Enter your 13-digit CNIC number
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Click Submit or Check
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Your score will appear on the screen
3. Utility Store or Ration Center
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Visit your nearest Utility Store
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Give them your CNIC
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Staff will check your PMT score and may give you a printout
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Useful if applying for ration or subsidy
4. NADRA or BISP Office
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Visit your nearest Tehsil-level NADRA or BISP center
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Request to check or update your NSER record
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You can also reverify or correct any errors
What to Do If Your Score Is Too High
If your PMT score is higher than 40 but you’re not eligible, do the following:
- Check your household information—perhaps something is old
- Retake the dynamic survey at a BISP center
- Have your CNIC data updated in a NADRA branch
- Check your utility and work information to ensure it is correct
- Wait for a couple of days and try again
At times, having your records corrected may get your PMT score under the cut-off mark.
Common FAQs About PMT Score
Q: Why do I need to confirm that my PMT score is correct?
Check via official portals, utility stores, or NADRA/BISP offices. Cross-check family information.
Q: I received “Not Eligible” in the response. Can I still receive assistance?
Yes. You can re-verify or correct your information via NADRA or BISP.
Q: Can I verify some other person’s PMT score?
Only if their SIM is registered. Otherwise, no results will be sent to you.
Q: How frequently is the PMT score refreshed?
Typically when you refresh your NSER survey or rectify your record through official centers.
Q: What PMT score is required for ration or utility concessions?
40 or less. Some provinces might provide assistance up to PMT 45 in exceptional situations.
How to Stay Eligible for BISP & Ehsaas
To prevent being disqualified in the future:
- Always give accurate and genuine information
- Use your own CNIC and SIM number
- Fill dynamic surveys when requested
- Update your utility and employment history
- Do not give false entries or agents who offer quick approval
Giving incorrect information will permanently bar you from assistance programs.
Final Thoughts
Your PMT score is a key that unlocks the door to payments from BISP, Ehsaas, and other welfare programs in Pakistan. Having your score in hand enables you to plan better, correct mistakes, and remain aware of your eligibility.
Regardless of whether you check your score through SMS, online websites, utility stores, or BISP offices, it is free, fast, and simple. Don’t let payments fall behind—remain active, remain honest, and remain eligible.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. We are not affiliated with any government office. Always check the official BISP or Ehsaas websites for the latest updates