Big News on Increased Pension: Central Government Announces 4 Steps for EPFO

UdaipurTimes, EPFO Updates | August 14, 2026: The central government has announced four important steps taken by the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) to expedite the disposal of pension claims of employees at the enhanced rate. 

The government gave this information in response to a question in the Lok Sabha regarding the backlog of pension applications, delay in disposal of applications and what steps have been taken to expedite the process.

This process regarding pension at the enhanced rate began after the Supreme Court's verdict in November 2022. In that verdict, the opportunity to contribute to the Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) at a higher rate based on higher salaries was maintained for eligible employees fulfilling certain conditions. The center said that EPFO ​​is taking several steps within the specified time frame to implement the Supreme Court's order.

1. Online system for submitting joint options

One of the important steps taken by EPFO ​​is the introduction of an online facility for members to submit applications for validation of the joint option. This online facility was launched after the Supreme Court verdict. With this step, eligible employees and pensioners can apply for the option of increased pension through the EPFO ​​system.

However, the increased pension is not approved directly by submitting the application online. After submitting the application, it has to be verified, and other necessary formalities have to be completed. Only then can the amount of increased pension be determined.

2. Verification and processing of applications as per rules

The government said that EPFO is processing applications for joint option validation in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations. That is, if someone applies, their claim for an increased pension is not automatically approved. Each application has to go through the prescribed verification process. 

This process may also include verification of the employee's contribution record and coordination with the concerned employer, as required. Therefore, this verification process is very important for those whose applications for an increased pension are still pending. The enhanced pension will be fixed and paid only after the verification is completed.

3. Instructions to regional offices for timely disposal

EPFO has, from time to time, directed its regional offices to expedite the disposal of pension applications based on higher salaries. The government said that regional offices have been given the necessary instructions to expedite the disposal of pension applications based on higher salaries. This means that the process of applying for a higher pension is not being monitored only at the central EPFO level. Regional offices have also been instructed to expedite the disposal and verification of applications.

Whether there is any delay in the disposal of enhanced pension claims and whether any instructions have been given to the regional offices and employers to expedite the verification of applications – these were also asked in the Lok Sabha. In response, the Ministry highlighted the instructions given to the regional offices.

4. Regular review through video conferencing

EPFO is holding regular video conferencing with the regional offices to review the progress of enhanced pension applications.

According to the government, this review is being conducted to monitor the extent to which pension applications have been disposed of, where there are problems and what is causing delays in the application process.

No new deadline announced

Although the centre has said that EPFO ​​is trying to implement the Supreme Court order within a specified time frame, no new universal deadline has been announced for the disposal of all pending enhanced pension applications or the payment of pension arrears or arrears.

As a result, the government's response in the Lok Sabha to the applicants waiting for enhanced pension means that the EPFO ​​offices continue to be monitored and pressured to dispose of applications quickly.