The Government of Pakistan has introduced the 8171 SMS service as an official communication channel to keep citizens informed about their eligibility and payments under welfare initiatives like the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and other social safety net schemes. This service plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and timely notifications for millions of beneficiaries across the country.
However, thousands of people are now reporting a common issue: they are not receiving messages from 8171, even after completing their registration or participating in the dynamic surveys. This problem is causing confusion and anxiety among applicants, especially those waiting to receive financial aid to support their families.
Why Are 8171 Messages So Important?
The 8171 SMS alerts are crucial because they:
- Confirm whether you are eligible for cash assistance.
- Notify you about verification or dynamic surveys.
- Alert you about when and where to collect payments.
- Inform you about rejections or errors in your application.
If you stop receiving messages from 8171, you might miss critical updates about your BISP status, leading to delays in payments or even disqualification. This comprehensive guide explains all the possible reasons why you are not getting 8171 SMS alerts and provides step-by-step solutions to fix this issue quickly. Whether it’s a technical glitch, SIM registration problem, or a simple network issue, we’ve covered it all to help you reconnect with this essential service.
Key Points at a Glance
| Details | Information |
| Service Name | 8171 SMS Alert Service |
| Purpose | Notify about BISP eligibility |
| Common Issue | Not receiving messages from 8171 |
| Fix Type | SIM, CNIC, network, and system checks |
| Last Updated | July 2025 |
What Is the 8171 SMS Alert System?
The 8171 SMS service is the official communication channel used by BISP to:
- Confirm your registration or eligibility status
- Notify beneficiaries about payment releases
- Alert families about survey updates or required documents
Once your information is processed, you usually receive an SMS from 8171 telling you whether you’ve been approved, rejected, or pending in the BISP database.
Common Reasons & Their Quick Solutions
Many people across Pakistan have reported that they are not receiving messages from 8171, even after completing their registration or participating in the BISP programs. These messages are crucial as they notify you about your eligibility status, payment updates, and dynamic survey requirements. If you’re facing this issue, it could be due to technical glitches, SIM registration problems, or simple mistakes in your application process. To help you resolve this, we’ve listed the most common reasons why you are not getting 8171 messages and their quick solutions so you can stay connected and avoid missing important updates. Below are all the reasons and their solutions are available. You can solve your problems easily.
1. CNIC Not Registered in BISP Database
Solution: Verify your CNIC at 8171.pass.gov.pk to confirm your registration.
2. SIM Not Registered Under Your CNIC
Solution: Dial *667# to check SIM ownership and register a SIM in your name if required.
3. Inactive or Blocked SIM
Solution: Contact your network provider to reactivate or replace the SIM.
4. Poor Network Coverage
Solution: Move to an area with better signals or switch to a stronger mobile network.
5. Short Code Blocking in Phone Settings
Solution: Check Settings > Messages > Blocked Numbers and unblock 8171 if listed.
6. Dynamic Survey Not Completed
Solution: Visit your nearest BISP office to complete the 8171 Dynamic Survey.
7. Using Someone Else’s SIM for Registration
Solution: Register with a SIM linked to your own CNIC to receive alerts.
8. Mistyped CNIC During Application
Solution: Correct your CNIC details by visiting a nearby BISP help center.
9. Outdated Phone Software Blocking SMS
Solution: Update your mobile software to support government short code messages.
10. SIM Card Is Too Old (2G Only)
Solution: Upgrade your SIM to 4G for better compatibility with 8171 alerts.
11. Phone Memory Full, Blocking New Messages
Solution: Delete unnecessary messages to free up space for new ones.
12. Do Not Disturb (DND) Service Active
Solution: Deactivate DND mode through your mobile network provider.
13. SMS Service Temporarily Disabled on SIM
Solution: Call your mobile operator to reactivate the SMS facility.
14. Your Application is Still Under Review
Solution: Wait for 2-3 weeks and recheck your CNIC online for updates.
15. 8171 System Facing Technical Glitches
Solution: Be patient; the system often sends pending messages in batches.
16. You Were Previously Declared Ineligible
Solution: Reapply after updating your details in the NSER survey.
17. SIM Ported to Another Network Recently
Solution: Wait 2-3 days after porting for the 8171 service to work again.
18. Registered SIM is Turned Off Frequently
Solution: Keep your phone switched on to receive alerts from 8171.
19. Multiple SIMs Linked to Your CNIC
Solution: Use only one primary SIM for registration and notifications.
20. Government Payment Cycle Not Yet Started
Solution: Follow official BISP announcements to know when messages will be sent.
Benefits of Fixing 8171 SMS Issues
Stay Updated on Your BISP Eligibility
Fixing your SMS issue ensures you receive timely updates about your eligibility status. You’ll know whether you’ve been approved for financial assistance or if additional steps are required to complete your verification.
Receive Payment and Verification Notifications on Time
The 8171 service sends alerts for payment disbursement dates, dynamic survey requirements, and verification schedules. Without these messages, you risk missing your chance to collect payments or complete necessary steps.
Avoid Missing Out on Financial Assistance Programs
When you resolve your SMS problems, you won’t miss enrollment opportunities for new government schemes, such as BISP Kafaalat, Ehsaas, and Rashan, or other initiatives designed to support low-income families.
Save Time and Avoid Unnecessary Visits to BISP Offices
By receiving accurate updates on your phone, you can avoid repeated trips to BISP centers just to check your status.
Enjoy Peace of Mind Knowing You’re Connected
Restoring 8171 alerts gives you confidence that you won’t be left out of essential programs that can help you manage household expenses, children’s education, and healthcare needs.
How to Check 8171 Messages Status Online
You can easily check your 8171 message status using two simple methods: SMS and the official web portal. Both options are designed to help you confirm your eligibility and payment updates from the comfort of your home.
| Method | Steps to Follow |
| SMS Method | 1. Open the messaging app on your phone. 2. Type your 13-digit CNIC number (no spaces or dashes). 3. Send it to 8171. 4. You will receive a reply with your eligibility status or payment details. |
| Web Portal | 1. Go to 8171.pass.gov.pk on your mobile or computer. 2. Enter your CNIC number and the captcha code displayed on the screen. 3. Click the “Submit” button. 4. Your eligibility and payment status will appear on the screen. |
Tips to Ensure You Never Miss 8171 Alerts Again
Missing an important 8171 message can result in delays in receiving your BISP payments or even missing out on government assistance entirely. To avoid such issues, follow these simple but effective tips to make sure you always stay connected with the 8171 SMS service:
1. Always Use a SIM Registered in Your Own CNIC
The 8171 system only sends messages to mobile numbers that are registered under your name. Using a family member’s or friend’s SIM may block you from receiving alerts. Check SIM ownership by dialing *667# and update it if needed.
2. Keep Your Mobile Phone Active and Charged
Many people miss 8171 messages because their phone is switched off for long periods. Make sure your phone is always turned on and your SIM is inserted properly to receive messages instantly.
3. Stay in an Area with Good Network Coverage
Poor network signals can delay or block incoming messages. If you live in a low-signal area, try to move to a location with stronger coverage or consider switching to a network that works better in your area.
4. Update Your CNIC Details if Necessary
If there are errors in your CNIC details or if it has expired, update it immediately at your nearest NADRA office. The 8171 system verifies your eligibility based on your CNIC information.
5. Unblock Short Code Messages on Your Phone
Some phones or mobile apps accidentally block short code messages like 8171. Go to your phone settings, check the Blocked Numbers list, and make sure 8171 is not blocked.
6. Participate in the 8171 Dynamic Survey Regularly
If you’re not receiving messages, it might be because your data is not updated in the system. Visit your nearest BISP center to complete or update your dynamic survey.
7. Upgrade to a New SIM if Using an Old One
If your SIM is too old or supports only 2G services, replace it with a 4G SIM to avoid compatibility issues with government alerts.
8. Check Your Status Online Frequently
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, don’t wait for an SMS. Visit 8171.pass.gov.pk and check your status online.
9. Save the 8171 Helpline Number
If you face issues even after following these steps, call the official BISP helpline at 8171 to get assistance.
Final Thoughts
If you are not getting messages from 8171, don’t worry. By following the solutions above, you can fix the problem and stay connected to vital updates from the Government of Pakistan.
Quick Tip:
- Send your CNIC to 8171 today.
- Or visit 8171.pass.gov.pk for online verification.
Don’t miss out on your financial aid due to a simple SMS issue!
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What if I never received any SMS from 8171?
Q2: Can I receive 8171 messages on a family member’s SIM?
No. Messages are only sent to numbers registered under your own CNIC.
Q3: Is there any fee for receiving 8171 SMS?
No, the service is completely free.
Q4: How long does it take to start getting 8171 messages after fixing issues?
It may take 3-7 working days after your SIM/CNIC issues are resolved.