DSS extends allowance application deadline

The Department of Social Services (DSS) has extended the deadline for online applications for social security allowances and education stipends for the 2026-27 fiscal year until August 31, following disruptions that prevented many applicants from applying on time.

Eligible applicants who could not complete their applications because of server, internet and power disruptions have been given additional time, according to a DSS notification issued recently.

The department had initially scheduled online applications for old-age allowance, widow and divorced women’s allowance, disability allowance and education stipends from August 1 to 15.

The education stipend programme covers students from disadvantaged groups, including transgender people and tea workers.

However, field-level officials and applicants reported that many eligible people were unable to complete the process within the original deadline because of software, internet and power-related problems.

Considering the difficulties faced by applicants, the DSS extended the deadline until August 31, the notification said.

Interested applicants can submit their applications through the DSS online application portal at dss.bhata.gov.bd/online-application.

The concerned divisional, district and upazila social services offices have been instructed to take necessary measures to facilitate the application process.

The extension is intended to give eligible applicants who faced technical and connectivity problems another opportunity to complete their applications for the 2026-27 fiscal year.