Government Paves Way for Pension Arrears Settlement, Prioritizing Retirees
In a significant evening announcement, the CEO of Iran’s National Pension Fund revealed a major development for retired teachers and other pensioners, signaling the government’s commitment to addressing longstanding financial obligations.
A Commitment Fulfilled
Hojat Mirzaei, the Fund’s Chief Executive, detailed that since the beginning of the current management’s term, a substantial effort has been dedicated to settling the overdue payments for retirees. He highlighted that with the positive outlook of the President towards pensioners, these arrears are scheduled to be settled within the current year.
Phased Payments Underway
Mirzaei explained that through close cooperation with the government and in coordination with the Planning and Budget Organization, the process of paying previous years’ arrears commenced from the Iranian month of Khordad (late May/June). He confirmed that payments for four specific categories of beneficiaries are slated for this current month.
Addressing Complex Challenges
The CEO emphasized that the Fund has been actively pursuing the resolution of arrears related to the first six months of the year 1400 (2021-2022) in the Iranian calendar, as well as specific 15% arrears for retirees of the Ministry of Health. He clarified that the payment of these claims falls within the legal framework of the year 1401 (2022-2023), but acknowledged that numerous obstacles, particularly concerning liquidity provision, had previously hindered their execution.
Positive Developments and Forward Momentum
Mirzaei reported that necessary follow-ups with relevant legal authorities have been conducted to remove these obstacles, yielding positive results. He concluded with an optimistic outlook, stating that, God willing, with the supportive perspective of the government and the President towards retirees, the settlement of these arrears will be accomplished within the year. This announcement marks a key step in the administration’s focus on social welfare and fulfilling its commitments to its retired citizens.
