Following the Supreme Court’s directive, the state government has begun disbursing long-pending Dearness Allowance (DA) and Dearness Relief (DR) dues. However, concerns arose over payments in cases where employees or pensioners are no longer alive.
Addressing this, the finance department has issued a detailed notification laying out a clear mechanism to transfer arrears to nominees or legal heirs, ensuring no eligible family is left out.
Coverage period and eligibility clarified
The notification specifically covers pending DA and DR dues from April 1, 2008, to December 31, 2019. Authorities acknowledged that in several cases, the original beneficiaries have passed away, necessitating a transparent and streamlined claims process for families.
Helpline and support system launched
To assist claimants, the government has introduced a dedicated support system:
Helpline number: 033-22535417
Official email support for queries and guidance
This initiative aims to simplify the process and reduce confusion for families navigating documentation and claims.
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Application process: Who to approach and how
Nominees or legal heirs, preferably with a Legal Heir Certificate, must submit applications along with required documents and bank details:
For DA claims: Apply to the head of the employee’s last workplace
For DR claims: Apply to the pension disbursing authority
Importantly, applications must be filed within 180 days from the date of notification.
Nominee vs legal heir: Who gets the money
The guidelines clearly define the disbursement process:
If a nominee is already registered, payment will be made directly to them
If no nominee exists, funds will be released to legal heirs after verification of documents
This ensures both speed and legal clarity in fund distribution.
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Different rules based on time of death
The government has also introduced separate procedures depending on when the employee passed away:
Before 2015: Arrears will be calculated by reconstructing records through e-service books
After 2015 (with HRMS ID): Arrears will be determined using digital records, with direct payment to beneficiaries
This dual system is designed to accommodate both legacy and digitised records.
With structured guidelines, dedicated support, and a defined timeline, the move is expected to bring relief to thousands of families awaiting pending dues, while ensuring transparency and administrative efficiency in the process.
