EPFO Higher Pension Update: 98.5% Applications Processed, But Majority Still Rejected – Here’s Why

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has processed 98.5% of the total applications received for higher pension benefits, but despite this significant progress, most applicants are yet to receive any advantage. In fact, more than 11 lakh applications have been rejected, raising critical questions about the process and eligibility.

📊 What Did the Government Say?

On July 21, 2025, Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje shared a written reply in the Lok Sabha stating:

• 15 lakh higher wage pension applications were received.

• 98.5% of these have already been processed.

• Only 21,995 applications remain pending.

• However, just 3.79 lakh applications have been approved.

• Over 11 lakh applications have been rejected.

❓ Why Are So Many Applications Being Rejected?

According to official sources and experts, there are several common mistakes and issues leading to rejection:

1. Lack of Joint Option

Many retirees did not submit the joint declaration with their employer, which is mandatory to opt for higher pension under the Supreme Court judgment of November 2022.

2. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Applications lacking:

• Salary slips

• Employer attestation

• Proof of higher EPF contribution
  …were often turned down.

3. Contribution Cap Issue

Only those who contributed to EPF on actual salary (beyond ₹15,000 monthly cap) are eligible. Many applicants never contributed above the wage ceiling, making them ineligible.

4. Late Application

Applications submitted after the deadline or outside the prescribed process were summarily rejected.

🧾 Supreme Court Ruling & Background

In November 2022, the Supreme Court allowed eligible EPF subscribers to opt for higher pension based on their actual salary instead of the ₹15,000 cap. Following this, EPFO invited applications from:

• Retirees who were members before September 1, 2014.

• Employees and employers who had contributed based on actual salary.

• Those who submitted a joint option with their employer.

🔍 What You Can Do If Your Application Was Rejected

If your application was among the rejected 11+ lakh:

1. Verify the reason for rejection through the EPFO portal or your employer.

2. Rectify documents, if any error was procedural.

3. If you believe you're eligible but were unjustly denied, you can:

   • File a grievance on the EPFO website

   • Approach the regional EPFO office

   • Take legal action, including filing in CAT or High Court, as some retirees have done.

✅ Tips to Avoid Rejection

• Submit all documents as per EPFO format

• Include joint option signed by employer

• Confirm EPF contribution history matches actual salary

• Avoid any mismatch in dates, account numbers, or IDs

🗣 Final Word

While EPFO has processed nearly all applications for higher pension, the low approval rate (just over 25%) highlights either strict eligibility norms or complex application requirements that many failed to meet.

If you’re planning to apply or appeal, ensure all documentation is thorough, employer cooperation is confirmed, and deadlines are strictly followed.

📌 Stay updated and seek expert help if needed — a single error can cost you lifelong pension benefits.