EPFO Update: The Employees’ Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) may bring good news for PF account holders soon. While the government has currently not proposed any increase in the minimum EPS (Employee Pension Scheme) amount, there is speculation that the interest rate for Provident Fund deposits could see an increase. This decision will be finalized at the upcoming Central Board of Trustees meeting, and if approved, the interest will be credited directly to employees’ PF accounts.
How Much Interest Can PF Employees Expect ?
For the financial years 2025 and 2026, the government may announce an interest rate of up to 9%, which is an increase of 0.75% compared to the previous 8.25% paid for 2024–25. If approved, this rise will mean a higher return for all PF account holders, giving employees a chance to grow their savings faster.
However, it is important to note that there has been no proposal to increase the minimum pension under the EPS. The Ministry of Labour and Employment has clarified that this aspect remains unchanged for now. Despite this, the possible increase in PF interest could still be a welcome boost for employees across the country.
How to Check Your PF Balance and Interest
Checking your PF balance is now easier than ever. EPFO has made multiple options available to help employees stay updated about their accounts:
1. Via Missed Call:
You can give a missed call from your registered mobile number to 9966044425 or 011-22901406. After two rings, the call will disconnect automatically, and you will receive an SMS with your PF balance and interest information.
2. Via SMS:
Alternatively, you can check your PF balance by sending an SMS to 7738299899. The message format is EPFOHO UAN followed by the first three letters of your preferred language. For example, if you want the information in Hindi, type EPFOHO UAN HIN. You will instantly receive your balance and KYC details via SMS.
Why This Matters
A potential hike in PF interest rate to 9% could mean a substantial increase in your retirement savings. By regularly checking your PF balance, employees can stay informed about their growing funds and plan their finances accordingly.
In conclusion, PF account holders should keep an eye on official EPFO announcements for the final interest rate approval. Meanwhile, using the missed call or SMS method ensures you always know your current PF balance and interest accumulation.
