Sisbén certificate: how to download it for free in 2026

Last updated: June 2026

A subsidy application is announced, the family rushes to apply… and at the window they're asked for a document they don't have: the Sisbén certificate. We see this scene often, and it hurts, because almost always the household is already classified; all that was missing was downloading a free document that takes five minutes. To prevent this from happening to you, here's an explanation of what the Sisbén certificate is. Sisbén certificate, how to download it and what they will ask you for it for.

In short: the Sisbén certificate is a free PDF document that confirms which group your household was classified into (A, B, C, or D) according to the socioeconomic survey. You can download it yourself from the official Sisbén website using your ID number, as many times as you need. There's no need to pay anyone or make an appointment to obtain it.

What is the Sisbén certificate and what is it for?

The Sisbén certificate is the official proof of your classification within the system. While the survey is the process that measures your living conditions, the certificate is the document that shows the result: which group and subgroup your household falls into. It is the proof that many entities require to confirm that you meet the requirements for a social program.

It serves primarily as an access key. Housing programs, the subsidized healthcare system, educational support, and cash transfers often require the certificate to verify your eligibility. Having the document on hand—and up-to-date—prevents you from missing out on opportunities because of a piece of paper you could have downloaded at home from your phone.

How to download the Sisbén certificate step by step?

The process is online and you don't need intermediaries. To get your Sisbén certificate I followed these steps:

• Go to the official website. Go to the website of Sisbén and look for the option "Check your Sisbén IV group" or the Citizen Portal.
• Enter your information. Select your document type, enter the number, and complete the security code (captcha) that appears on the screen.
• Check your ranking. The system will display your group (A, B, C or D) and your household subgroup.
• Download the certificate. Click the button to generate the document; it will download as a PDF, ready to save, print, or send.

The entire process is free and you can repeat it as many times as you need. If someone offers to "get you the certificate" or "improve your social group" in exchange for money, stay away: no official Sisbén procedure has a cost, and that's a scam.

What information appears on the certificate?

When you open it, the Sisbén certificate contains the information that the relevant entities need to verify your situation. You will generally see:

• Your group and subgroup (for example A1, B3, C2), which orders households from lowest to highest resources.
• Household and personal data consulted, according to the document you entered.
• The generation date, which many entities look at when accepting a recent certificate.

That group is the key piece, because each program requires a different one. If you want to understand what door each classification opens for you, it helps to review how the [groups/classifications] work. Sisbén groups for subsidies And if you're interested in the details of the measurement, check out our guide on the Sisbén score.

Why does the certificate sometimes not appear or appear outdated?

There are two common situations. The first: your household has never taken the survey, so the system has no way to classify you. In that case, the first step is to register; we explain it in full in How to register in Sisbén. The second: the certificate exists, but it reflects an old situation of your home that has already changed.

If your financial situation has changed—you moved, someone lost their job, a new member was born—the survey needs to be updated so the group reflects the current situation. Review it. How to update the Sisbén survey before applying for a subsidy, because an up-to-date certificate avoids rejections and claims later on.

What kind of aid will they ask me for the certificate for?

Many of the country's social programs require it. Housing subsidies, the subsidized healthcare system, cash transfer programs, and educational support often require the certificate to confirm your income bracket. Therefore, it's advisable to download it before a call for applications opens, rather than scrambling to find it at the last minute.

If you want to see the full picture of the programs and how they connect, check out our guide on State aid and subsidies in Colombia. There we explain why Sisbén is the first link in almost the entire support system.

How to download the Sisbén certificate step by step

The Sisbén certificate is the document that verifies your group and classification within the database. It can be downloaded for free from the official website. To help you navigate the process, here's a general overview of the online procedure.

General consultation process. Steps may vary; always confirm on the official Sisbén website.

Passed	What are you doing
1	Access the official Sisbén portal (DNP) from a browser.
2	Look for the option to search by identity document.
3	Enter your document type and number and the information requested by the system.
4	Verify that your name and home address appear correctly on the screen.
5	Download or print the certificate in PDF format.

Common errors when downloading the certificate

• Using unofficial websites: Some websites charge fees or request additional information. The certificate is free and is only issued by the official Sisbén portal.
• Confusing being registered with having a certificate: If you've never been surveyed, you first need to request the survey at your local town hall; without that, there's no certificate.
• Not checking household data: If outdated information appears, the certificate may cause problems during a procedure. Verify before using it.

Frequently asked questions about the Sisbén certificate

How much does the Sisbén certificate cost?

Nothing. Consulting and downloading the certificate is completely free on the official Sisbén website. You can obtain it as many times as you want without paying or making an appointment.

Can I download the certificate from my mobile phone?

Yes. The official portal works from your cell phone or computer; you only need your ID number and an internet connection. The document is generated as a PDF for you to save or print.

What do I do if the check says I'm not in the Sisbén?

This means your household is not registered in the survey. The next step is to request the socioeconomic survey at the Sisbén office in your municipality; only then will the system be able to classify you and issue the certificate.

How often should I download a new certificate?

When requested or when your information changes. Many entities prefer a recent certificate, so the most practical thing to do is download it just before each procedure to submit the most up-to-date version.

How Hepacom accompanies you

At the Hechos Para la Comunidad Foundation, we know that a missing document can leave a family without the help they need most. That's why we sat down to explain the basics that are rarely clarified: where to check, what number to use, how to read the group that appears, and why it's important to have it ready before any call for assistance.

We support families so that the Sisbén system stops being an obstacle and becomes the gateway to decent housing and the subsidies they are entitled to. Find more guides on aid and rights in our blog, Discover all our work in the Hepacom homepage And if you need guidance, write to us at donaciones@hepacom.org.

Information guide. Consulting and downloading the certificate is done through the official Sisbén portal, managed by the National Planning Department. Verify the current address and procedure on the official website before starting. Hepacom does not charge fees or process payments or certificates.