EPFO Launches VISHWAS 2026 Scheme for Amicable Dispute Resolution

The Central Government has introduced the VISHWAS 2026 scheme, aimed at facilitating the amicable resolution of disputes concerning damages levied on employers under Section 14B of the Employees' Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952, and Section 128 of the Code of Social Security, 2020. 

Scheme Duration and Application Window 

The VISHWAS 2026 scheme became effective on June 29, 2026, following the Central Government's notification.  

This scheme is highly time-sensitive, remaining in force for a strict, non-extendable period of 6 months from its notification date.  

Eligible establishments must complete their online submissions within this brief window to avail themselves of legal relief. 

Coverage and Eligible Dispute Categories 

The scheme specifically applies to 4 distinct operational categories of ongoing and pending damage assessment cases.  

These include ongoing litigation cases, finalised 14B orders with unpaid or partially paid damages, pre-adjudication notice cases, and uninitiated pre-adjudication cases.  

Each category addresses different stages of dispute resolution to ensure comprehensive coverage. 

VISHWAS 2026 Damage Rates 

VISHWAS 2026 offers a heavily discounted, flat, month-wise rate of damages for all default periods occurring prior to June 14, 2024.  

For defaults up to 2 months, the rate is set at 0.25% per month; defaults between 2 to 4 months are capped at 0.50% per month; and any default exceeding 4 months will attract 1.00% per month.  

This replaces all regular statutory penalties, providing significant financial relief to employers. 

Read More: EPFO Begins Crediting 8.25% Interest for FY26: What Members Need to Know! 

Mandatory Conditions for Participation 

To qualify for the scheme, employers must remit all outstanding statutory interest under Section 7Q or Section 127 before applying.  

Additionally, they must submit a formal, legally binding undertaking to withdraw and forgo any future legal appeals. These conditions ensure that the resolution process remains streamlined and effective. 

Conclusion 

The VISHWAS 2026 scheme offers a structured approach to resolving employer disputes, with a 6-month application window from June 29, 2026. It covers 4 categories of disputes, offering concessional damage rates of 0.25% to 1.00% per month for defaults before June 14, 2024, contingent on fulfilling specific conditions. 

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