Social Security & Pensions
Atal Pension Yojana (APY) - Guaranteed Pension
Complete 2026 guide to APY: Guaranteed pension ₹1,000-5,000/month, auto-debit contributions, spouse continuation, and tax benefits for unorganized sector.
Last updated: 3/8/2026
Overview
Atal Pension Yojana (APY), launched 2015, guarantees fixed pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month at age 60 for subscribers joining between 18-40 years. By 2026, 6.5 crore subscribers enrolled with government as Pension Funding Authority guaranteeing returns.
Contributions auto-debited monthly (as low as ₹42 for ₹1,000 pension), spouse gets same pension on subscriber death, 50% to nominee. Minimum 20-year contribution mandatory. NPS-like structure but with sovereign guarantee. 80% subscribers from rural/low-income groups.
Who is Eligible?
- Indian citizens aged 18-40 years
- No existing pension scheme
- Bank/post office account holder
- Spouse/nominee must be Indian resident
- Minimum 20 years contribution
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
- Bank account passbook
- PAN/Form 60 (for tax reporting)
- Passport size photo
- Mobile number for OTP
How to Apply
- 1Step 1: Visit bank/post office with Aadhaar
- 2Step 2: Fill APY form selecting pension amount
- 3Step 3: Link bank account for auto-debit
- 4Step 4: Receive PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number)
- 5Step 5: Monthly contributions start next cycle
- 6Step 6: Get pension at 60 or pass to spouse