The Non Contributory Pension Program (NCP) became effective April 1, 2003 and was officially launched by the Government of Belize and the Social Security Board on the July 30, 2003.
Decisions on NCP claims are made by a Non Contributory Pension Committee (NCPC) comprised of the Chairman, Canon Leroy Flowers representing the Belize Council of Churches, Mrs. Maria Elena Contreras representing the Social Security Board and Mr. Evan Dakers representing the Ministry of Human Development.
The NCP Program is part of the Government of Belize’s strategy to address and alleviate poverty in Belize. The program was placed under the long-term benefits branch of the Social Security Board, which is the institution that implements, monitors and administers the program.
A monthly pension of $100.00 is paid to all who meet the following requirements:
- Be a female 65 years of age or older of male 67 years of age or older
- Possess a valid Social Security Card
- Have no source of income or inadequate means of support; and
- Be a permanent resident or citizen of Belize
The Application Process
- All applicants are to fill out an application form (RB1A). The form is to be completely and accurately filled out.
- The application is to be submitted to any of the Social Security branch offices.
- The NCPC reviews the applications once per month and makes decisions.
- Applications are processed by Social Security Board’s Benefits Department at Headquarters in Belmopan based on the Committee’s decision.
- All applicants are informed in writing of their application status.
Approved Applications
The pensioner is to collect her monthly pension cheque at the Social Security Office where the application was submitted.
An approved application may be revoked if the NCPC determines that the applicant no longer meets the qualifying conditions.
Disallowed Applications
An application will be disallowed if the applicant is:
- Receiving a benefit from any local or external entity such as Social Security, the Government of Belize, the US Government and/or Private pension scheme;
- Employed;
- Self-employed;
- Receiving an income from any source or has adequate means of support or;
- Provides false information.
Appeals Process
If an applicant is dissatisfied with a decision they can appeal against the decision.
An Appeals form (AP1) can be obtained at any Social Security office.
The duly completed AP1 form is submitted to any Social Security Branch office addressed to the Non Contributory Pension Committee.
The committee will review the appeal based on the merits of the case. This does not mean that the original decision will be automatically changed.
The NCP Program is a poverty alleviation program introduced to assist senior citizens as part of a process to show appreciation for contributing to the development and growth of Belize. The Government of Belize and the Social Security Board have joined forces to assist in improving the standard of living of people of our nation.
This is only one of the steps taken in making available opportunities for social and economic development.
