EPF Norms: Higher Pension Eligibility & Key Issues About Joint Application

In a circular issued by Employees' Provident Fund Organisation clarification was given pertaining to key issues employees/pensioners were facing while jointly applying for higher pension from Employees Pension Scheme (EPS). The circular issued on April 23, 2023 also mentioned about the eligibility norms for high pension.

The circular addresses four questions which the employees have on their minds:
- What will happen once the joint application form is submitted?
- What if an employer has not approved the joint application form?
- What if there is an error or mismatch in the joint application form?
- What to do if there are any grievance?

What will happen once the joint application form is submitted?

As per the circular, once the joint application form is submitted, the EPFO field offices (FO) will examine the data available at the EPFO field offices. Once the data is verified, the EPFO will calculate the dues and an order will be passed for depositing/transferring of dues.

What if the joint application form is not approved by the employer?

If the employer does not approve the joint application form, an employee gets an opportunity to provide additional proof or evidence or correct any mistakes/errors (including those made by the employees/pensioners) before rejecting it completely. The circular states that within a period of one month and under the intimation given to the employees, they have to furnish the details.

What will happen if there is a mismatch or error in the data?

Sometimes the data available with FO and the information submitted by the employer and employee do not match. Employee and employer will be intimated about the data mismatch and it has to be corrected within one month's time

Similarly, if there is an error spotted in the submitted application form or if it is is not complete, then EPFO will seek information from the employers within one month of intimation to employees to rectify. On rectification, then the joint application form will be accepted by the EPFO. The order will be issued regarding transferring/depositing dues. If the complete information is not received within one month, the EPFO will pass an order on merit.

What to do if there are any grievances?

If there is any grievance of an employee or pensioner, then the same can be registered on the EPFiGMS after submission of his request form and payment of due contribution, if any. The registration of such grievance shall be under the specified category of higher pension with reference to the Supreme Court judgement dated November 4, 2022. All grievances shall be addressed and disposed of at the level of the Nominated Officer. Grievances will be monitored by the officer in-charge of the Regional and Zonal Office.

The EPFO has extended the deadline of online facility till May 3, 2023 (from the earlier deadline of March 3, 2023) to submit the joint application form to receive a higher pension from EPS.

Additionally the circular also stated an employee is eligible to receive the higher pension from EPS if:
- He/she was making a higher contribution to EPS and retired prior to September1, 2014
- He/she was a member of EPF/EPF as on September 1, 2014, and missed the opportunity to apply for higher pension from EPS.