EPFO Achieves Milestone with 99% Disposal of Pension Applications

The EPFO has disposed of nearly 99% of requests for higher pension contributions under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995. This follows a Supreme Court judgment directing prompt processing. Over 17 lakh applications were handled, with both on-service and retired individuals benefiting from the scheme enhancements.

The Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has made significant progress by disposing of nearly 99% of applications seeking higher contributions for enhanced pensions under the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995. This development was revealed in Parliament, indicating a commitment to implementing the November 2022 Supreme Court directive expeditiously.

Minister of State for Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje informed the Lok Sabha that an online facility facilitated roughly 17.49 lakh applications for validation of joint options, with 15.24 lakh forwarded by employers to EPFO by January 2025. As of November 2025, 99% of these applications were processed, with demand letters issued to over 4 lakh applicants, though 34,060 were deemed ineligible due to demand amount discrepancies.

To date, over 2.33 lakh applicants have made their contributions, covering both current employees and retirees. The EPS, 1995 operates as a 'Defined Contribution-Defined Benefit' Social Security Scheme, ensuring equitable treatment for pensioners under different wage categories, supported by employer and governmental contributions. The government guarantees a minimum pension, underscoring its commitment to maximizing benefits under the EPS-95 scheme.

(With inputs from agencies.)