Missed collecting your pension for over a year? Learn how to claim undrawn pension arrears under Punjab Civil Service Rules. Step-by-step guide with approval limits and authority levels.
When it comes to pensions, timely withdrawals are not just about cash flow—they’re critical for avoiding procedural issues and ensuring continued eligibility. But what if you’ve stopped drawing your pension for over a year? Do you lose the right to claim it?
If you or someone you care about has missed drawing their pension, there’s a structured process in place to reclaim it. Here’s how you can revive and receive pension arrears according to the Punjab Civil Services Rules.
What Happens If a Pension Remains Undrawn for More Than a Year?
If a pension payable within India is not drawn for 12 consecutive months, it ceases to be automatically payable. In technical terms, it lapses. However, the pension can be revived if the pensioner or a legal representative files a claim under prescribed conditions.
How to Claim Undrawn Pension Arrears
The process depends on the amount involved:
If the arrears are ₹25,000 or less:
The Disbursing Officer can authorize the payment directly without external approval.
If the arrears are more than ₹25,000 but less than ₹50,000:
Requires prior sanction of the District Collector where the pension office is located.
If the arrears exceed ₹50,000:
Requires approval from the authority that originally sanctioned the pension.
Special Cases: Pension Not Drawn for 3 or 6 Years
- Service Pension not drawn for 3 years or more
- Political Pension not drawn for 6 years or more
In these cases, revival is only possible with approval from the Accountant General.
Checklist for Reclaiming Pension Arrears
- Identify the lapse duration
- Calculate total arrears
- Contact the Disbursing Officer
- Seek necessary approvals
- Prepare documents (ID, pension order, passbook, etc.)
- File a formal claim
Tips for Pensioners
- Maintain a withdrawal schedule
- Update details with your pension office
- Nominate a legal representative
- Submit grievances through CPENGRAMS if needed
- Contact District Treasury or Accountant General’s office for assistance
Conclusion
Missing a pension withdrawal for over a year doesn’t mean the end of entitlement. Depending on the arrears amount and lapse duration, you may need to approach different authorities for approval. Knowing the process ensures your rightful pension benefits can still be claimed smoothly and legally.
