EPFO mandatory coverage wage ceiling approved at ₹25,000 a month

EPFO's wage ceiling for mandatory coverage was approved for an increase to ₹25,000 a month in September 2026. It was last revised in September 2014, from ₹6,500 to ₹15,000. The government expects the new ceiling to cover over 51 lakh more employees, subject to applicable statutory provisions.

India's social protection coverage reached 68.4% in 2026, up from 19% in 2015, covering more than one billion people, an official factsheet said.

EPFO grouped 13 partial-withdrawal provisions into Essential Needs, Housing Needs and Special Circumstances. Members can make up to 10 withdrawals for education and 5 for marriage. EPFO also raised the auto-settlement limit for eligible advance claims to ₹5 lakh.

Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana, revised from the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) in October 2026, supports eligible elderly people, widows, people with disabilities and bereaved families. It will continue from 2026-27 to 2030-31.