Higher Pension Approved For 22,000 EPFO Members: Latest Update And How To Check Status

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has taken a big step forward by issuing 21,885 Pension Payment Orders (PPOs) to eligible members under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) 1995. This move brings improved pension benefits to thousands of employees who opted for a higher pension option.

Background and Application Timeline

The option for higher pension was made available after a Supreme Court ruling on November 4, 2022, which allowed employees to contribute based on their actual salary instead of the wage ceiling. The EPFO launched the online application process on February 26, 2023, giving multiple extensions to ensure all eligible members could apply.

The final deadline for employers to submit joint applications on behalf of employees was January 31, 2025.

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Total Applications and Current Status

A total of 17,48,768 applications for higher pension were submitted by members and pensioners. Out of these, 1,65,621 members have been notified to deposit the additional dues required to be eligible for the higher pension benefit. EPFO is actively processing pending applications and has instructed its field offices to speed up the verification and approval process.

How to Check Your Application Status Online

Members who have applied for the higher pension can track their application status online through the EPFO Unified Member Portal. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the EPFO Unified Member Portal.
2. Click on ‘Track Application Status for Pension on Higher Wages’.
3. On the next page, click ‘Click here’.
4. Enter your Application Acknowledgement Number, UAN, or PPO Number.
5. Enter the Captcha code, check the consent box, and click on ‘Get OTP’.
6. Enter the OTP received on your phone and click ‘Get Status’.
7. Your application status will appear on the screen.

Advice for Applicants

If you have received a notice for balance payment, it is important to submit the required amount without delay to avoid any issues. Regularly check your application status and comply with any additional steps required by EPFO to ensure you receive your enhanced pension benefits.

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Conclusion

The EPFO’s actions show strong progress toward improving the financial security of its members. If you are an applicant, stay updated, respond quickly to any EPFO instructions, and complete the process to enjoy the full benefits of a higher pension under EPS 1995.