Pensions FAQ

Pensions

How long are pensions paid for?

  • NAPSA monthly pensions are paid to the member for life, and are converted to a survivor’s pension if the member passes away.  
  • Invalidity pensions are converted to retirement pensions when the member attains normal retirement age.
  • Continued payment of the pension is dependent on annual submission of a pension life certificate by all pensioners (retirement, invalidity and survivor’s).

Does the rate of pension remain the same over the years?

All NAPSA pensions in payment are adjusted annually in line with changes in NAE (wage inflation).

What happens to my contributions if I pass away?

Survivor’s benefits are paid when a member passes away, regardless of their age.

How is funeral grant calculated?

Funeral grant is computed as follows:

  • 10 x the minimum pension applicable in the year of the member’s death.

                                      Examples: 2015 = 10 x 796.20 = 7,962
                                      2016 = 10 x 843.97 = 8,439.70

How will I know how much I will be paid?

NAPSA contribution statements provide the principal amount payable, consisting of employee and employer contributions. The principal amount will be indexed to wage inflation (compensation for loss of value of the contributions over time), and interest will also be added.  

How do I apply for my benefits?

Once a member reaches retirement age, becomes invalid or passes away, the member or surviving beneficiaries should visit their nearest NAPSA office or mobile office with an original Identity Document for advice on how to claim their benefits.  Once eligibility is determined, a claim form will be issued together with instructions on completion and guidance on supporting documents.

How long does it take to get my benefits?

It takes 30 working days to pay a benefit if all beneficiary details and contributions are made available, the necessary documents have been submitted, and death verification has been completed in the case of survivor’s benefits.

Missing contribution and beneficiary data results in delayed processing of benefits.  Members are encouraged to regularly request for contribution statements and update their spouses(s), biological and legally adopted children using the member registration form.  

How are benefits paid?

All benefits are paid by bank transfer.  Monthly pensions are paid into pension accounts that are opened for the pensioner by NAPSA.

 

How do I verify my benefits?

Benefits payable can be verified from the nearest NAPSA office where a payment voucher can be obtained.

Can I continue contributing to NAPSA after I receive a benefit?

A member who has claimed a benefit cannot rejoin the Scheme and is encouraged to formally notify their employer if they continue working or enter into employment again.

What is the lowest pension NAPSA pays?

NAPSA law provides for a minimum pension. This is the lowest monthly retirement or invalidity pension payable in a given year and is computed as follows:

  • 20% of the National Average Earnings (NAE) applicable in the year of retirement or invalidity, as obtained from the Central Statistical Office. 

                                                            Examples:  2015 = 20% of 3,981.00

                                                                                            = K796.20  

Can I get any other benefits apart from the monthly pension?

Members who do not meet the qualifying criteria for a pension are paid either retirement lump sum, invalidity lump sum, or survivor’s lump sum.