Delhi Family Benefit Scheme: ₹20,000 for Bereaved Families

The death of a family’s main earner brings both emotional pain and sudden financial strain. To help families during such difficult times, the Delhi government offers financial relief through the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme.

Under this initiative, a one-time financial assistance of ₹20,000 is provided to the surviving family members of a deceased breadwinner between 18 and 60 years of age, regardless of gender.

This guide explains the scheme’s purpose, eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step instructions to apply online.

(toc) #title=(Table of Content)

What is the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme?

The Delhi Family Benefit Scheme is a welfare program launched by the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD).

Its goal is to provide immediate financial support to households that have lost their primary source of income due to the death of the breadwinner, whether male or female.

The scheme ensures that the legal heir or dependent family member receives ₹20,000 directly into their bank account, offering essential financial relief during this challenging time.

Delhi Family Benefit Scheme Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for this benefit, applicants must meet specific requirements. These ensure the aid reaches those who truly need it. Here's a clear breakdown:

1. Age of the Deceased: The primary earner must have been between 18 and 60 years old at the time of death.
2. Residency Requirement: The family must have lived in Delhi for at least five years before applying.
3. Income Limit: The household's annual income should not exceed ₹1,00,000 (one lakh rupees).
4. Aadhaar Requirement: Every applicant needs a valid Aadhaar number to proceed with the application.
5. Bank Account Details: Applicants need a single-holder bank account located within Delhi's National Capital Territory for receiving payments through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS). For minors, a guardian-operated account is acceptable.

Documents Required for Delhi Family Benefit Scheme

Having the right documents ready ensures a smooth application process. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of Age: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or any official document verifying the deceased’s age.
• Proof of Residence: Voter ID, Ration Card, PAN Card, or Driving License showing at least five years of residency in Delhi.
• Bank Account Information: Details of a singly operated bank account in Delhi (or guardian-operated for minors).
• Death Certificate: Official certificate confirming the breadwinner’s passing.
• Photograph: One passport-sized photo of the applicant.
• Declaration Form: Self-declaration as per the format available on the application portal.

Alternative Proof for Residents Without Standard Documentation

Applicants who have been living in Delhi for at least five years but do not have official documents to prove their address — such as slum dwellers, tenants without rent agreements, or people in temporary housing — are eligible to apply by submitting written statements from any two witnesses from the following categories:

• Local public representatives like the area’s MP or MLA.
• Resident Welfare Association (RWA) President or Secretary of the locality.
• Two neighbors from the same area with their contact details.
• President or Secretary of a registered Women Self-Help Group (SHG) or Mahila Mandal.
• ICDS Supervisor or ASHA Worker of the area.
• A Gazetted Officer from the Central or Delhi Government.

Important Conditions for Witness Verification

1. Each witness must provide their own residence proof showing they have lived in the same area for the period they claim to know the applicant.
2. Witnesses must clearly mention the duration of the applicant’s stay in Delhi and include their full contact details.
3. In case of doubt, the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) may conduct a home visit to verify the information provided.

How to Apply Online for Delhi Family Benefit Scheme?

Applying for the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme is simple and can be done entirely online through the official e-District Delhi Portal. Follow these easy steps to complete your application successfully.

Step 1: Initial Registration on the e-District Portal

If you’re a first-time user, you’ll need to register on the e-District portal before applying for any financial assistance scheme.

For First-Time Users:

1. Visit the official https://edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in/in/en/Home/Index.html link
2. Under the "Citizen Corner," select "New User Registration."
3. Select Document Type: Aadhaar
4. Enter your document number (Aadhaar Number) and complete the captcha
5. Fill the Citizen Registration Form with current residential details
6. Submit the form to receive your Login ID and Password on your registered mobile number and email address.

Once registration is complete, you can log in anytime to access financial assistance services offered by the Department of Social Welfare.

Step 2: Applying for Financial Assistance

For Adult Applicants:

1. Login to the e-District portal using your Login ID and Password.
2. Access "Apply Online" from the main page
3. Select “Department of Social Welfare” from the list of departments.
4. Choose the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme from the available financial assistance options.
5. Check your pre-filled personal details and click “Continue” to move ahead.
6. Complete all required fields, including details of the deceased breadwinner and your relationship to them.
7. Upload all necessary supporting documents (age proof, death certificate, residence proof or witness statements, bank details, etc.).
8. Upload a recent passport-size photograph.
9. Review your application carefully and submit it.
10. Verify your submission by entering the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
11. Save or print the acknowledgement receipt for future reference.

For Minor Beneficiaries:

If the beneficiary is a minor, the parent or guardian must apply on their behalf by following these additional steps:

1. Login to the e-District portal using the parent or guardian’s credentials.
2. Go to the “Profile” section and click on “Minor Profile.”
3. Add the minor’s details, including their name, date of birth, and photograph, to generate a Minor ID.
4. Return to the “Apply Online” section and select the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme.
5. Choose the Minor Applicant Profile created earlier and click “Continue.”
6. Complete all required fields using the minor’s information and upload necessary documents.
7. Submit the form and verify with the OTP sent to the registered mobile number.
8. Download or print the acknowledgement receipt as proof of submission.

Final Step: Verification and Approval

After submission, your application and documents will be reviewed by the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO). If required, a home visit may be conducted to verify details. Once approved, the financial assistance of ₹20,000 will be credited directly to your bank account.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1) Can I apply for the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme if I'm not a Delhi resident but have been living there for 10 years?

Answer: No. Physical presence in Delhi is not sufficient. You need documentary evidence showing Delhi as your registered residence.

If you've been living in Delhi for 10 years without proper documentation, you can:

• Apply for a Delhi Voter ID card
• Transfer your ration card to Delhi
• Update your Aadhaar card with your Delhi address
• Use witness statements from MPs, MLAs, or RWA representatives

Once you have proper residence proof showing 5+ years of Delhi residency, you become eligible to apply.

Q2)Is income proof required for the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme?

Answer: Yes. The Delhi Family Benefit Scheme requires applicants to provide valid income proof to confirm that the total family income is not more than ₹1,00,000 per year.

Acceptable income proof documents include:

• Self-declaration of income (available on the e-District portal format)
• IT returns of last 3 financial years
• Last three months salary slip (Attested by organization-authorized person)

Q3). How long does it take to receive the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme payment?

Answer: After submitting your application, the typical processing time is 45 days, but it can take longer depending on verification requirements.

Q4). Where can I get help if I face problems during the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme application?

Answer: If you face issues while applying for the Delhi Family Benefit Scheme, you can get help in two ways:

• 1. Contact Your District Social Welfare Office: Visit or call your local District Social Welfare Office for guidance on eligibility, required documents, or application verification.
• 2. Use the Grievance Section on the e-District Portal: Log in to the e-District Delhi portal, open the Grievance option, and submit your complaint or query directly online. You’ll receive a reference number for tracking the status.

Tip: For faster resolution, keep your application number, registered mobile number, and supporting documents ready before contacting support.

Conclusion

The Delhi Family Benefit Scheme serves as a vital lifeline, offering swift financial stability to families coping with loss. Through simplified eligibility checks and online submissions, it enables vulnerable households to rebuild without bureaucratic barriers.

Eligible families are encouraged to register on the e-District portal to secure this essential aid and move forward with greater security.

In times of crisis, such targeted initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to equity and compassion.