EPF and EPS: Your Complete Guide to Retirement Savings
What is EPF Scheme
The Employee Provident Fund (EPF) is a government-backed savings scheme designed to help employees save a portion of their salary for retirement. The EPF scheme is mandatory for employees earning up to a certain limit, with both the employer and employee contributing a percentage of the employee's salary to the fund. The primary aim of the EPF scheme is to ensure that employees have a substantial corpus when they retire, providing financial security in their post-retirement life.
To check your EPF balance, you can use various methods such as the EPF balance check number or through the EPFO portal by performing an EPF balance check. You can also download your EPF passbook online to view the detailed transaction history.
What is EPS
The Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) is another component of the EPF scheme, focused specifically on providing pension benefits to employees. Unlike EPF, which is purely a savings scheme, EPS provides a monthly pension to employees after retirement, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. The pension amount is calculated based on the employee's last drawn salary and the number of years of service.
To understand what is EPS in PF, it's essential to note that EPS contributions are derived from the employer's share of EPF contributions. The EPF contributions are split, with a portion going towards EPF and a portion towards EPS.
EPS vs EPF - Difference Between EPS and EPF
Understanding the difference between EPF and EPS is crucial for managing your retirement savings effectively.
EPF (Employee Provident Fund):
- Savings scheme for employees.
- Both employee and employer contribute.
- Can be withdrawn upon retirement or specific circumstances.
- Provides a lump sum amount upon retirement.
EPS (Employee Pension Scheme):
- Pension scheme for employees.
- Funded by employer's contribution.
- Provides a monthly pension upon retirement.
- Pension amount depends on the last drawn salary and years of service.
Calculation of EPF
EPF contributions are calculated as a percentage of the employee's salary. Both the employee and the employer contribute 12% of the employee's basic salary and dearness allowance towards EPF. Here's a simplified breakdown:
- Employee Contribution: 12% of Basic Salary + Dearness Allowance.
- Employer Contribution: 3.67% towards EPF and 8.33% towards EPS.
For example, if an employee's basic salary and dearness allowance total ₹15,000, the EPF contributions would be:
- Employee Contribution: ₹1,800 (12% of ₹15,000).
- Employer Contribution: ₹550.50 (3.67% of ₹15,000 towards EPF) and ₹1,249.50 (8.33% of ₹15,000 towards EPS).
Calculation of EPS
The EPS contribution is part of the employer's EPF contribution, specifically 8.33% of the employee's basic salary and dearness allowance, with a maximum limit of ₹15,000. The pension amount is calculated based on the average salary of the last five years and the total number of years of service.
Conclusion
Both EPF and EPS play crucial roles in securing an employee's financial future post-retirement. While EPF focuses on accumulating savings through contributions, EPS provides a steady pension during retirement. Understanding the nuances and calculations of these schemes can help employees make informed decisions about their retirement planning.
How can I check my EPF balance?
EPF account details can be accessed online through the EPFO portal.
Account details on SMS
UAN activated Members may know their latest PF contribution and balance available with EPFO by sending an SMS at 7738299899 from registered mobile number. EPFOHO UAN to 7738299899.
Account details on Missed Calls
Members registered on the UAN portal may get their details available with EPFO by giving a missed call to 9966044425 from their registered Mobile number. If the UAN of the member is seeded with any one of the Bank A/C number, AADHAAR and PAN the member will get details of last contribution and PF Balance.
What is the full form of EPF in salary?
EPF stands for Employee Provident Fund.
How can I download my EPF passbook?
Mentioned below are the steps on how to download passbook from EPFO:
Step 1: Access the EPFO Website
Initiate the process by visiting the official website of the Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) at epfindia.gov.in. This platform serves as the entry point for accessing your EPF Passbook online.
Step 2: Utilize the UMANG App
To streamline the process, download the UMANG app, available on both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. This user-friendly application consolidates various government services, including features related to the Employee Provident Fund (EPF).
Step 3: Authenticate Your Identity
Once you have obtained your Universal Account Number (UAN), return to the homepage and log in using your UAN, password, and the captcha code. This step validates your identity and grants you access to your EPF account.
Step 4: Navigate to the Passbook Section
Upon successful login, locate the 'Download' section in the main menu. Click on the 'Download Passbook' option to proceed.
Step 5: Specify Your Member ID
If you have multiple employers contributing to your EPF, you will be prompted to select your Member ID. Choose the relevant Member ID from the drop-down list.
Step 6: Retrieve the Passbook
With your Member ID selected, click on the 'Download' button. Your EPF Passbook will be generated in PDF format, enabling you to save or print it for your financial records.
How do I update my EPF KYC details online?
Update KYC details for EPF online using the UAN EPFO portal.
Login with your UAN (Universal Account Number) credential. Update KYC by uploading required documents - PAN card, Aadhar, and bank account details. If not updated yet, update immediately.
Benefits of KYC update include no delays in transfer/withdrawal, claim acceptance, and SMS alerts. Required documents are NPR, AADHAR, PAN, bank account, passport, driving license, election card, or ration card.
What should I do if I have a complaint regarding my EPF?
You can register an EPF complaint online through the EPFO grievance portal.
You can also send your queries to following e-mail id:- If you're an employee: employeefeedback@epfindia.gov.in.
- If you're an employer: employerfeedback@epfindia.gov.in.
- You may also make a call at our toll-free number: 14470.
What is EPF Form 19?
EPF Form 19 is used for final settlement of EPF accounts at the time of retirement or when leaving service.
How can I correct my name in EPF records?
To change your name in your EPF account online, follow these steps:
- Access the UAN portal.
- Log in using your user ID and password.
- Navigate to the 'Modify' section and select 'Modify Basic Details'.
- A page will appear displaying your current details and an option to request a change.
- Under the 'Request Change' option, enter your name as per your Aadhaar card.
- Click the 'Update' button.
- You'll receive a notification stating 'Pending approval by Employer'.
- Contact your employer to approve the request.
- Once approved by your employer, the EPF office will update your name within 30 days.