KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- EPFO rolled out 12 major PF rule changes affecting employees and pensioners.
- UAN creation, withdrawals, transfers, and pensions are now simpler but stricter.
- EPF interest for FY 2024–25 fixed at 8.25%, keeping returns stable.
If you’re a salaried employee, EPF is probably your biggest long-term savings.
From a fresher joining their first job to an uncle nearing retirement, these updates touch almost everyone.
As 2025 wraps up, EPFO has quietly changed several rules.
Some make life easier. Others need careful planning from your side.
| Area | What’s Changed | Who It Impacts |
|---|---|---|
| UAN & Enrolment | Face authentication via UMANG | New employees |
| Withdrawals | Fewer categories, new limits | Existing members |
| Pension | Centralised pension payments | Pensioners |
| Compliance | Vishwas penalty settlement | Employers |
12 New PF Rules Every Employee Must Know
1. Passbook Lite for Quick PF Check
EPFO has introduced Passbook Lite.
You no longer need a separate passbook portal.
A simple PF balance snapshot is now visible directly on the member portal.
Good for quick checks during chai breaks or office hours.
2. Annexure K Download Now Online
If you’ve changed jobs, this is a big relief.
Annexure K (Transfer Certificate) can now be downloaded in PDF format from the member portal.
Earlier, people had to chase PF offices for this.
It helps track service history and PF transfers clearly.
3. Faster PF Claim Settlements
EPFO has shifted internal approvals.
More authority is now with Assistant PF Commissioners and junior officers.
This means claims should move faster, with less waiting and fewer follow-ups.
4. EPFO Employee Enrolment Scheme 2025
Launched on 1 November 2025, this scheme helps employers fix past gaps.
Employees who missed EPF coverage between 1 July 2017 and 31 October 2025 can now be enrolled.
The employee’s contribution is waived for the declared period, if it was not deducted earlier.
5. Face Authentication Mandatory for UAN
From 1 August 2025, UAN generation needs Aadhaar-based face authentication.
This is done through the UMANG app.
The aim is fewer errors, no duplicate UANs, and cleaner records.
6. Simplified PF Withdrawal Rules
Withdrawals are now easier to understand.
Earlier 13 categories are merged into just three:
- Essential needs (health, education, marriage)
- Housing needs
- Special situations
Minimum service needed is now 12 months.
Members can withdraw up to 100% eligible balance, but 25% must stay for retirement.
7. Longer Wait for Full Withdrawal After Job Loss
This change needs planning.
- EPF full withdrawal: wait increased to 12 months
- EPS full withdrawal: wait increased to 36 months
This pushes members to keep savings intact unless really needed.
8. Easier PF Transfers After Job Change
From 15 January 2025, PF transfers are smoother.
In many cases, employer approval is no longer required.
Good news for those switching jobs often, especially in IT and services.
9. Centralised Pension Payment System (CPPS)
Live from 1 January 2025, CPPS credits pensions directly through NPCI.
Pension goes straight to any bank account.
No PPO transfer, no paperwork, no branch visits when shifting cities.
10. Vishwas Scheme for Old PF Penalty Cases
Launched in October 2025, this scheme helps settle long-pending penalty cases.
Lower penalty rates apply:
- 0.25% per month (delay up to 2 months)
- 0.50% per month (delay up to 4 months)
- 1% per month (beyond 4 months)
It’s aimed at closing old disputes and reducing court cases.
11. Life Certificate from Home for Pensioners
No more standing in bank queues.
Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), pensioners can submit their digital life certificate (Jeevan Pramaan) from home.
A big comfort for senior citizens.
12. EPF Interest Rate at 8.25%
For FY 2024–25, EPF interest is fixed at 8.25% per year.
It may not feel flashy, but it’s steady.
In uncertain markets, EPF remains a dependable retirement cushion.
