22,000 EPFO Members to Receive Higher Pension: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has announced that 22,000 members will receive a higher pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995. Additionally, 1.65 lakh eligible members have been issued notices to contribute additional amounts to qualify for an enhanced pension. This move follows the Supreme Court’s directive of November 4, 2022, allowing eligible employees to receive higher pensions by contributing more towards EPS during their service period. In this article, we will explain the new higher pension scheme, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step instructions on how to check your updated pension status.
22,000 EPFO Members to Receive Higher Pension
The EPFO’s higher pension scheme offers a valuable opportunity for eligible members to secure better retirement benefits. However, employees should carefully consider the additional contribution requirement and track their application status to avoid delays. By following the application process and pension status check methods, EPFO members can make informed decisions about their retirement security.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Applications Received | Approximately 17.48 lakh applications were submitted by members and pensioners seeking a higher pension under EPS 1995. |
| Demand Notices Issued | As of January 28, 2025, the EPFO has issued demand notices to 1,65,621 members, requesting them to deposit additional amounts to qualify for a higher pension. |
| Pension Payment Orders (PPOs) Issued | A total of 21,885 PPOs have been processed and issued to eligible members. |
| Application Deadlines | The EPFO extended the deadline for employers to forward joint applications for higher pensions multiple times, with the final extension set to January 31, 2025. |
For more details, visit the official EPFO website: EPFO Official Website
What is the Higher Pension Scheme?
The Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995 is designed to provide pension benefits to employees in the organized sector after retirement at the age of 58. The pension amount is typically calculated based on the employee’s pensionable salary and years of service.
Under the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling, employees who contributed more than the statutory wage ceiling (₹15,000 per month) towards the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) were given the option to receive a higher pension. The revised scheme allows eligible employees to redirect a portion of their EPF contributions toward EPS, increasing their retirement benefits.
Who is Eligible for a Higher Pension?
To qualify for a higher pension under the revised scheme, an employee must meet the following conditions:
- Employment Period
- The employee should have been an active EPFO member before September 1, 2014.
- Joint Option Submission
- The employee must have submitted a joint option form (signed by both employee and employer) for higher pension contributions.
- Higher Wage Contributions
- The employee must have contributed towards EPF on full salary (beyond the ₹15,000 ceiling limit) before September 1, 2014.
- Additional Contribution Requirement
- Members must contribute an additional 1.16% of their salary exceeding ₹15,000 to the pension fund.
Steps to Check Your Updated Pension Status
If you have applied for a higher pension, you can check your pension status by following these steps:
1. Check Your Pension Status on the EPFO Portal
- Visit the official EPFO website: https://www.epfindia.gov.in
- Click on Pensioner’s Portal under the “Online Services” section.
- Select “Know Your Pension Status”.
- Enter your Pension Payment Order (PPO) number, date of birth, and captcha code.
- Click “Submit” to view your pension details.
2. Use the UMANG Mobile App
- Download the UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) app.
- Log in using your credentials.
- Navigate to EPFO services.
- Select “Pension Payment Status” to view updated details.
3. Check Pension Status via SMS
- Send an SMS to 7738299899 in the format:
EPFOHO UAN ENG
(Replace “ENG” with your preferred language code, e.g., “HIN” for Hindi). - Ensure that your UAN (Universal Account Number) is linked to your mobile number.
4. Contact EPFO Customer Support
- Call the EPFO toll-free number: 1800-118-005.
- Provide your PPO number and registered details to get real-time pension status updates.
How to Apply for 22,000 EPFO Members to Receive Higher Pension?
If you meet the eligibility criteria but haven’t applied for a higher pension yet, follow these steps:
- Gather Required Documents
- Joint option form under Para 26(6) of the EPF Scheme, 1952.
- Salary slips showing contributions on higher wages.
- Any previous correspondence with EPFO regarding higher wage contributions.
- Submit the Joint Declaration
- Download the Higher Pension Joint Option Form from the EPFO website.
- Fill in all required details and attach supporting documents.
- Submit the completed form to your employer for verification.
- Employer Verification & Forwarding to EPFO
- The employer will verify the details and forward the application to EPFO before the deadline.
- Wait for EPFO Processing & Approval
- The EPFO will review the application and issue a demand notice (if additional contribution is required).
- Once approved, the pension amount will be updated accordingly.
Implications of the Higher Pension Scheme
While the revised scheme offers significant pension benefits, there are certain factors to consider:
Advantages
- Higher Monthly Pension: Eligible employees can receive a substantially higher pension after retirement.
- Improved Social Security: Ensures financial stability for retired employees and their dependents.
- Legal Clarity: The Supreme Court ruling has provided legal backing for higher pension eligibility.
Challenges
- Additional Contribution Requirement: Employees opting for a higher pension must contribute extra funds from their accumulated EPF balance.
- Longer Processing Times: Due to high application volumes, processing may take several months.
- Limited Eligibility: Only employees who contributed before September 1, 2014, qualify for the benefit.
Retirement Age Increased in India for 2025 – What Employees Must Know!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the deadline to apply for a higher pension?
The final deadline for employers to submit verified joint option forms to EPFO was January 31, 2025.
2. Will my EPF balance be affected if I opt for a higher pension?
Yes. A portion of your EPF balance will be transferred to EPS to fund the higher pension.
3. How can I confirm if my higher pension application is approved?
You can track your application status on the EPFO portal, UMANG app, or by contacting EPFO customer support.
4. What happens if I fail to pay the additional contribution in time?
If you miss the payment deadline, you may not qualify for the higher pension benefit.
