Digital Life Certificate Rejected? Here’s What Pensioners Should Do to Restore Their Pension Smoothly

Every year, millions of pensioners across the country submit their Digital Life Certificate (DLC) in November to confirm their eligibility for continued pension payments. This technology-driven process is meant to simplify verification, but many pensioners still face rejection of their DLC due to errors, incomplete details, or poor-quality biometric scans. A rejected certificate can delay pension credits, making it essential to understand the reasons behind the issue and the steps needed to correct it.

Why Digital Life Certificates Get Rejected

Most DLC rejections occur due to inconsistencies between the details submitted and the records available in the pension database. Common reasons include:

• Incorrect or mismatched Aadhaar number

• Errors in Pension Payment Order (PPO) number

• Wrong pension account details

• Incomplete personal information

• Poor-quality fingerprint or iris scan

Since the DLC submission process relies heavily on UIDAI-approved biometric devices, even minor scanning errors can lead to rejection. For instance, low-quality fingerprint scans—caused by dry skin, poor lighting, or a faulty device—often fail the verification process.

How the Biometric Process Works

To submit a digital certificate, pensioners must use a biometric device connected to a smartphone or computer. The device captures the fingerprint or iris data and transmits it securely to UIDAI for authentication. Many devices require an OTG cable to connect with mobile phones.

Because the process is sensitive to accuracy, pensioners must ensure:

• Fingers are clean and moisturized

• Adequate lighting is available

• The device is functioning properly

• The biometric impression is captured clearly

What to Do If Your DLC Is Rejected

If your Digital Life Certificate has been rejected, the first step is to contact your Pension Disbursing Agency (PDA). This may be your bank, post office, or relevant government pension office. They can tell you the exact reason for rejection, which helps in rectifying the issue quickly.

Next, update the incorrect information—such as wrong Aadhaar details, PPO number, or bank account details—before attempting a fresh submission. Pensioners can generate a new DLC either through:

• The Jeevan Pramaan website

• The Jeevan Pramaan mobile app

• A nearby bank branch

• A CSC (Common Service Centre)

• Digital service kiosks

Submitting the new certificate usually resolves the issue immediately, ensuring that the next pension payment is not delayed.

DLC Validity and Important Exceptions

A Digital Life Certificate remains valid for one year, after which pensioners must submit a fresh certificate. However, certain individuals are not eligible for DLC:

• Pensioners who have rejoined employment

• Family pensioners who have remarried

Such cases require separate documentation and verification instead of the standard DLC process.

Why Timely Submission Matters

The government introduced the Digital Life Certificate system to make verification faster, more convenient, and secure—reducing the need for pensioners to physically visit banks. However, the November window is a busy period, and delays in submission may lead to temporary pension stoppage.

Pensioners are strongly advised to submit their DLC early in the month and check the status regularly to avoid last-minute issues.

A Simple Step to Ensure Uninterrupted Pension

At its core, the DLC is designed to protect pensioners from unnecessary travel and manual verification. By ensuring accurate information and proper biometric scans, pensioners can complete the process smoothly and secure their monthly pension without interruption. Regular checks and timely submission are the key to avoiding any disruption.

This proactive approach helps pensioners enjoy a stress-free experience and ensures they continue receiving their benefits without delay.