EPFO Processes Over 98% Higher Pension Applications: Government

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has processed over 98.5% of applications received for pension on higher wages. As of July 16, 2025, the total number of such applications stood at 15.24 lakh, the government informed Parliament.

Over 11 Lakh Applications Rejected

Out of the 15.24 lakh applications submitted, EPFO rejected 11.01 lakh. Demand letters were issued to eligible members, while 21,995 cases remain pending. The data was shared in a written response by the Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, in the Lok Sabha.

“EPFO has processed and disposed of applications for pension on higher wages as per the Supreme Court’s order dated November 4, 2022. Over 98.5% of applications are cleared,” the Minister stated.

Pensionable Salary Cap Raised

The Supreme Court has affirmed the 2014 amendment to the Employees' Pension Scheme. This change increased the maximum salary on which pension contributions are calculated from ₹6,500 to ₹15,000 per month. It also permits both employees and employers to contribute 8.33% of their salaries, even if they earn above this new ₹15,000 cap.

Deadlines Extended for Submission

All EPS members as of September 1, 2014, were given a 6-month window to opt for higher contributions. EPFO later extended this deadline multiple times to allow time for submission of joint options and supporting documents by both employees and employers.

The remaining applications are still under review. EPFO is continuing to dispose of these as per the Supreme Court’s ruling. No final timeline has been indicated for clearing the remaining cases.

Read More: Big Relief for Salaried Employees: EPFO Considers Allowing Partial Access Every 10 Years!

Conclusion

With over 98.5% of applications addressed, the processing of higher pension cases under the amended scheme is nearly complete. The remaining few are still being handled by the EPFO as part of the ongoing implementation.

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