Higher EPS Pension / Last chance to get more pension, date is 31st January, this is how you have to apply

Higher EPS Pension: The Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has once again extended the deadline for processing and uploading details under the Higher EPS Pension scheme to January 31, 2025. This deadline has already been extended several times before. According to EPFO, more than 3.1 lakh applications are still pending for validation. Additionally, several employers and employers’ associations had requested more time for submission.

EPFO has also directed employers to update or respond to the required details in 4.66 lakh cases by January 15, 2025, where EPFO has asked for additional information.

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What is the Higher EPS Pension Scheme?

The Higher EPS Pension scheme is designed for employees who were EPF members before August 31, 2014, or retired on or before that date. Under this scheme, employees can opt for a higher pension based on their basic salary.

Previously, the pension cap was limited to ₹6,500 or ₹15,000. Now, members can contribute based on their actual basic salary to receive a higher pension at retirement, provided they have completed 10 years of service under EPS 95.

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Steps to Apply for Higher EPS Pension

If you want to avail the benefits of the Higher EPS Pension scheme, follow these 6 steps:

1. Visit the EPFO Portal
   • Select the Pension on Higher Salary option on the portal.
2. Fill out the Application Form
   • Choose the "Validate Joint Option" and enter all required details.
3. Enter Personal Details
   • Provide your name, date of birth, Aadhaar number, mobile number, and CAPTCHA. Submit the OTP.
4. Submit PF Details
   • After verification, enter all PF-related information.
5. Receive Acknowledgment Number
   • Upon acceptance, you will receive an acknowledgment number.
6. Application Review
   • The field officer will review your application.

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Eligibility Criteria

1. For Regular Pension:
   • The member must be at least 58 years old.
2. For Early Pension:
   • Members aged 50 years or older can opt for early pension.
3. For Higher EPS Pension:
   • Members must have completed 10 years of service under EPS 95.

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How to Track Application Status?

If you have applied for the Higher EPS Pension scheme, you can track your application status on EPFO’s Member Service Portal. Ensure you have your acknowledgment number to check the status.

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Why is EPFO’s Move Important?

Given the large number of pending applications and requests from employers, EPFO’s decision is significant. This move provides employees an extended opportunity to rectify or submit their details while ensuring better transparency and smoother processing.