First steps for the family
Locate the PPO, Pensioner ID, death certificate, bank details and identity records. Check whether the eligible family member is already recorded in the pension documents. Do not surrender original documents unless an authorised office formally requires them.
Eligibility depends on pension records and rules
Family pension is governed by applicable defence pension rules and the relationship, dependency and other conditions recorded for the claimant. The portal cannot correct an underlying eligibility issue without supporting records and approval.
Common documents to prepare
- Death certificate of the pensioner.
- PPO or e-PPO and pension identifiers.
- Claimant identity, age and relationship proof.
- Bank account and contact details.
- Any declarations, certificates or forms specifically requested for the case.
Submitting and tracking the claim
- Use the official SPARSH route or the responsible record/service office.
- Enter names and dates exactly as shown in authoritative records.
- Upload readable files and retain the acknowledgement.
- Track objections and respond with the exact missing document.
- Verify the first pension credit and download the pension slip.
Why claims may be delayed
Common causes include an unrecorded family member, mismatched names or dates, incomplete bank verification, unreadable documents, competing claims or a requirement for sanction by the responsible authority.
Frequently asked questions
Is family pension automatic after a pensioner’s death?
Not in every case. The eligible claimant may need to submit documents and complete verification.
What if the claimant’s name differs across documents?
Resolve or explain the mismatch using accepted supporting records before or with the claim.
Where should a pending claim be followed up?
Use the request status and grievance channels, quoting the acknowledgement and supplying only the requested evidence.
Official verification and safety
Use only the official SPARSH website reached through a trusted government source. Do not share your password, OTP, Aadhaar details, bank PIN or full document images with unknown callers or unofficial agents.