EPFO Increases PF Interest Rate to 8.25% for FY 2026-27 — Notification Issued

With an interest rate of 8.25%, a PF member with:

This is calculated on the monthly running balance method.

• ▸EPF balance of ₹5 lakh will earn: ₹41,250 in interest for the year
• ▸EPF balance of ₹10 lakh will earn: ₹82,500 in interest for the year
• ▸EPF balance of ₹25 lakh will earn: ₹2,06,250 in interest for the year

Of the employer's 12% contribution:

• ▸33% goes to EPS (Employees' Pension Scheme) — max ₹1,250/month
• ▸67% goes to EPF account
• ▸The declared 8.25% interest applies only to the EPF balance, not EPS
• ▸Government contributes 1.16% to EPS for employees earning up to ₹15,000/month basic

Multiple ways to check EPF account balance:

• ▸EPFO Passbook Portal: passbook.epfindia.gov.in
• ▸UMANG App: Available on Android and iOS
• ▸SMS Service: Send "EPFOHO UAN ENG" to 7738299899
• ▸Missed Call Service: Give a missed call to 9966044425 from registered mobile
• ▸E-passbook: Available through member.epfindia.gov.in

Employers must deposit PF contributions by the 15th of every month for the previous month. Late payment attracts:

• ▸Damages under Section 14B: 5% to 25% per annum depending on delay period
• ▸Interest under Section 7Q: 12% per annum on delayed amount
• ▸Prosecution under Section 14(1A): Imprisonment up to 1 year with fine

New withdrawal rules effective:

• ▸Non-refundable advance for COVID (if available): Up to 3 months basic+DA or 75% of balance
• ▸Housing advance: Up to 90% of balance for construction/purchase (after 5 years membership)
• ▸Marriage: Up to 50% of employee's share for self, children, or siblings (after 7 years)
• ▸Education: Up to 50% of employee's share for higher studies (after 7 years)
• ▸Illness: Full balance for major illness treatment