Source: ECHS
Small mistakes on the ECHS Smart Card application form are one of the most common reasons veterans face delays in getting their card issued. This article lists eight facts about the application process, based on official ECHS requirements, so your application goes through smoothly the first time.
- The application form must be filled completely — Every field in the ECHS Smart Card application form needs to be filled in correctly, since an incomplete form is one of the most common reasons applications get sent back.
- Photographs must be affixed at the specified places — Passport-size photographs need to be pasted at the exact places marked on the form, and each photograph must be stamped by the issuing officer.
- An attested affidavit is required — The application must include an affidavit in original, duly attested, along with the other supporting documents.
- Pre-1986 retirees follow a slightly different document list — Personnel who retired before 1986 do not need to submit a PPO copy; instead, they submit their Discharge Book or Pension Book showing their spouse’s name, along with a banker’s certificate.
- A PPO copy is needed where applicable — For personnel who do need it, a photocopy of the PPO, attested by your bank or treasury, must be included with the application.
- Proof of dependants must be included — A photocopy of the Service or Discharge Book showing proof of dependants is required so that eligible family members can be added to the Smart Card.
- A demand draft is needed for the Smart Card fee — The applicable fee for the Smart Card must be paid through a demand draft submitted along with the application form.
- The card is issued only against the original application receipt — You will need to produce the original receipt of your submitted application form before the ECHS Smart Card is actually issued to you.
Most delays in getting an ECHS Smart Card come down to a missing signature, an unstamped photograph, or the wrong set of documents for your specific retirement year. Going through the checklist carefully before submission can save you an extra trip back to the Polyclinic or Records office. Keep photocopies of everything you submit, in case you need to follow up on your application later.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q2. Do pre-1986 retirees need to submit a PPO copy for ECHS?
A2. No, they instead submit their Discharge Book or Pension Book showing their spouse’s name, along with a banker’s certificate.
Q3. How should photographs be submitted with the ECHS application?
A3. Passport-size photographs must be affixed at the specified places on the form, and each one must be stamped by the issuing officer.
Q4. Is an affidavit required for the ECHS Smart Card application?
A4. Yes, an attested affidavit in original must be submitted along with the other required documents.
Q5. How is the ECHS Smart Card fee paid?
A5. The applicable fee is paid through a demand draft, which must be submitted along with the completed application form.
Q6. What do I need to collect my ECHS Smart Card once approved?
A6. You will need to produce the original receipt of your submitted application form to receive your Smart Card.
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