It was a glimmer of hope for lakhs of retired and working employees. A promise of a better future. The Supreme Court’s decision on the EPFO Higher Pension Scheme lit a spark in the hearts of those who had long awaited fair pension rights. But now, that spark has dimmed for many. Out of over 15 lakh applications submitted under the scheme, a staggering 11 lakh have been rejected.
If you were planning to apply, or have already done so, this update is crucial. Let’s walk you through what’s happening, why so many dreams are being crushed, and what you can still do.
EPFO Higher Pension Scheme Update: A Shocking Rejection Rate
Union Minister of State for Labour, Shobha Karandlaje, recently presented the government’s report in Parliament regarding applications received under the Higher Pension Scheme.
Here’s what the numbers reveal:
| Detail | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Applications Received | 15.24 lakh |
| Applications Processed | 98.5% |
| Applications Rejected | Over 11 lakh |
| Applications Approved | Around 4 lakh |
| Applications Still Under Process | 21,995 |
The most shocking part? There’s still no clear explanation from the government on why such a high number of applications were turned down. The Chennai and Puducherry regions recorded the highest number of rejections, with over 63,000 forms denied.
The Turning Point: What the Supreme Court Said
This entire movement began on 4 November 2022, when the Supreme Court gave a landmark judgment. It allowed employees who had been part of the EPF scheme before 1 September 2014 and who continued their employment or retired later, to opt for higher pension based on their actual salary—not just the ₹15,000 wage cap.
For many, this was the justice they had long awaited. A fair pension based on their true earnings.
EPFO’s Portal Launch and Application Window
Following the court’s decision, EPFO launched a dedicated online portal on 26 February 2023. Employees and pensioners could apply directly through this platform.
- Initial Deadline: 3 May 2023
- Extended Deadline: 26 June 2023
Despite this, several employers delayed in uploading salary details, causing further complications for applicants.
Who Is Eligible for Higher Pension?
Before you apply, make sure you meet these conditions:
- You became an EPF member before 1 September 2014
- You are either retired or currently employed
- You have either already contributed to EPS on your full salary, or you’re opting to do it now
What is EPS-95 and Why Was There a Dispute?
EPS-95 (Employees’ Pension Scheme 1995) is the pension scheme under EPFO that provides retirement benefits to employees. However, it had one major drawback:
- Pension was calculated only on ₹15,000/month, even if your actual salary was much higher.
This led to widespread dissatisfaction. Employees demanded pension on their full salary, which led to years of legal battle, ending with the SC’s favorable verdict.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Higher Pension Under EPS-95
If you’re eligible and still planning to apply, follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the official EPFO website – www.epfindia.gov.in
- Navigate to Services > Employees
- Login to the Unified Member Portal using your UAN and password
- Select Form 10D under “Online Services”
- Verify your bank details and accept the terms
- Fill in your family member details
- Upload your bank passbook (ensure name is clearly visible)
- Submit the form using OTP verification via Aadhaar
FAQs: People Also Ask
1. Why were so many EPFO higher pension applications rejected?
The government has not released an official explanation yet. However, common reasons could include incomplete documents, lack of employer confirmation, or salary detail mismatches.
2. Can rejected applicants reapply for the Higher Pension Scheme?
As of now, EPFO has not clarified whether reapplication will be allowed. Applicants should wait for an official announcement and regularly check the EPFO portal for updates.
3. What documents are required to apply for the higher pension?
You will typically need:
- Your UAN
- Aadhaar-linked mobile number
- Updated bank passbook
- Salary details verified by employer
4. What does the Supreme Court judgment on EPFO say?
It allows eligible employees to receive pension based on their actual salary (above ₹15,000), if they had opted or wish to opt for full salary contribution to EPS before 1 September 2014.
5. How can I check the status of my higher pension application?
You can log in to the Unified Portal at EPFO e-Sewa using your UAN and password, and check your application status under the services section.
Final Words
If your application has been rejected, don’t lose heart. Keep all your documents ready, track official updates from EPFO, and speak to your employer to ensure that all records have been properly submitted. If you haven’t applied yet and are eligible, don’t miss this opportunity—apply carefully and on time.
The road may seem uncertain, but the right information and timely action can still lead you toward the pension you truly deserve.
Stay informed, stay hopeful. For more helpful updates on pensions, government schemes, and financial security, keep following our platform.