Retirees registered with Benin’s National Retirement Fund (Fonds National des Retraites du Bénin, FNRB) have until November 15, 2026, to complete their digital proof-of-life verification under a new government initiative designed to simplify pension administration.
The campaign, which began on October 15, allows pensioners living in Benin and those residing abroad to confirm their eligibility through a mobile application or designated biometric terminals.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to modernise public services by moving administrative procedures online and reducing the need for pensioners to travel to government offices.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance, through the department responsible for the budget and public service, introduced the digital system to make the verification process more accessible while improving the accuracy of pension records.
Pensioners are encouraged to complete the procedure within the one-month period to ensure their information is verified through the new system.
Mobile Application Offers a Convenient Verification Option
Under the new arrangement, FNRB beneficiaries can confirm their status using the dedicated “Preuve de Vie” (Proof of Life) mobile application on a compatible smartphone or tablet.
To begin, pensioners need two valid pieces of information: their Personal Identification Number (NPI) and their pension booklet number.
After entering these details into the application, users follow the instructions to complete a biometric check involving fingerprint scanning. The process is intended to allow beneficiaries to verify their status without having to visit an administrative office in person.
The government says the system is designed to make the procedure easier for pensioners, particularly those who live far from administrative facilities, have difficulty travelling or reside outside Benin.
Once the verification has been successfully completed, beneficiaries should receive a confirmation notification through an available communication channel, such as SMS, email or WhatsApp.
Pensioners are advised to follow the application’s instructions carefully and ensure their identification details are valid before starting the process. The official guidance also recommends avoiding strong light reflections during fingerprint scanning to help the device capture the required biometric information.
Biometric Terminals Provide an Alternative for Pensioners
Pensioners who cannot complete the verification through a mobile device can use designated biometric terminals installed in selected public spaces.
To use this option, beneficiaries must present their biometric national identity card and follow the instructions provided at the terminal. They will then place their fingers on the designated sensor to complete the fingerprint verification.
A confirmation message is expected once the process has been completed successfully. Depending on the available contact details, the notification may arrive by SMS, email or WhatsApp.
Providing both mobile and terminal-based options gives pensioners greater flexibility, particularly those who do not own compatible smartphones or are unfamiliar with digital applications.
However, beneficiaries who intend to use a biometric terminal should confirm where the service is available before making a journey, as the announcement does not provide a comprehensive list of terminal locations.
The two options are intended to make the process more accessible while maintaining biometric checks to help verify pensioners’ identities.
FNRB Pensioners Must Complete Verification Before the Deadline
The official verification campaign runs from October 15 to November 15, 2026. Pensioners covered by the FNRB are encouraged to complete the process before the closing date.
The deadline applies to beneficiaries living within Benin as well as those residing overseas. The remote verification option is particularly useful for retirees abroad who might otherwise face additional costs and travel difficulties when completing administrative requirements.
Pensioners should ensure that their personal identification number and pension booklet number are correct and valid. They should also check that their biometric details can be captured successfully and retain the confirmation received after completing the procedure.
Anyone experiencing technical difficulties or requiring clarification can contact the assistance centre established for the campaign.
The ministry has provided the following telephone number for support: (+229) 01 21 40 79 47.
According to the published guidance, assistance is available from Monday to Friday, around the clock during the campaign period.
The helpline is intended to help beneficiaries understand the process and resolve difficulties encountered while using the application or completing the verification.
Benin Pushes Ahead With Digital Public Services
The new proof-of-life system reflects Benin’s continuing efforts to digitise government services and reduce the administrative burden on citizens.
Traditionally, pensioners may have needed to travel to complete procedures required to confirm their eligibility for retirement benefits. Such requirements can create difficulties for older people, individuals with mobility challenges and those living far from administrative offices.
By introducing remote verification, the government aims to reduce these barriers and make pension administration more convenient.
The biometric component also serves an administrative purpose: it helps authorities verify beneficiaries and maintain more reliable pension records. Keeping these records accurate is important for managing public pension payments and ensuring that benefits are directed to eligible recipients.
Nevertheless, the success of the system will depend on whether pensioners can access the technology, understand the instructions and receive assistance when problems arise.
Some beneficiaries may need support with installing the application, entering their identification details or completing fingerprint scans. Clear guidance and effective technical assistance will therefore be important throughout the campaign.
What Pensioners Should Do Before November 15
FNRB beneficiaries should avoid leaving the verification until the final days of the campaign. Completing the procedure early will give them time to address any technical or identification problems.
Pensioners should take the following steps:
- Prepare the required details: Ensure that the personal identification number (NPI) and pension booklet number are valid.
- Choose a verification method: Use the “Preuve de Vie” mobile application or a designated biometric terminal.
- Follow the biometric instructions: Complete the fingerprint check as directed.
- Check for confirmation: Look for the notification confirming successful completion.
- Seek help if necessary: Contact the assistance centre at (+229) 01 21 40 79 47 if difficulties arise.
The deadline is November 15, 2026, and pensioners should consult official government guidance if they need clarification about their individual circumstances.
Benin’s new digital verification process is intended to make pension administration easier while strengthening the management of beneficiary records. Whether it achieves those goals will depend on how effectively the system serves retirees throughout the country and abroad.
