The Department of Pension & Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW) has extended the benefit of fixed medical allowance (FMA) to the central government civilian employees who are covered under the National Pension System (NPS) upon retirement from service. This announcement was made through an office memorandum (OM) on February 7, 2025.
The OM introduces updated forms, clarifies payment frequency, and mandates life certificate submission for continued disbursement.
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What is Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA)?
FMA is a monthly allowance given to retired central government pensioners to cover their outpatient medical expenses if they live in areas not covered by the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), allowing them to meet their basic medical needs that do not necessitate hospitalisation.
Eligibility to avail of Fixed Medical Allowance:
- Retired central government employees covered under NPS can receive Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA).
- They must be eligible for the CGHS (Central Government Health Scheme) but live outside areas covered by it.
- They should either not avail any CGHS facility or only use In-Patient Department (IPD) services.
- Employees from other government sectors or states may have different policies.
Revised Claim Forms & PRAN Details
The office memorandum also introduces revised claim forms and formats to streamline the FMA application process. These revised forms now include Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) details, following the instructions from the Controller General of Accounts (CGA).FMA Payment and Frequency
The FMA rate for NPS retirees has been set at Rs 1,000 per month, the same as for those under the Old Pension Scheme. However, the payment of FMA will be credited on a quarterly basis directly into the pensioner’s bank account. It is also clarified that FMA for September to November will be disbursed in the first week of December.
Submission of Life Certificate
To continue receiving FMA from December onwards, retirees must submit a life certificate. This is a proof-of-life document to ensure the pensioner is alive and eligible for benefits.
Is Submission of a Life Certificate Mandatory for Continued FMA Payments?
Yes. As per the new OM, from December onwards, pensioners must submit a life certificate to continue receiving FMA.
What is a Life Certificate?
A life certificate is a document that serves as proof that the pensioner is alive. For pensioners to continue receiving their pensions, pension disbursing agencies usually require a life certificate, also known as a “Jeevan Pramaan.” You can submit your life certificate digitally through the Jeevan Pramaan portal using your Aadhaar card and biometric authentication.
What Happens if a Pensioner Fails to Submit a Life Certificate?
If it is not submitted, FMA payments will be stopped until the life certificate document is provided.
