Even if a PF deduction appears on your salary slip, check whether the money has actually been deposited.

According to reports, employees can check their PF passbook on the EPFO ​​portal using their Universal Account Number (UAN). If the PF amount is deducted from your salary but not deposited, you should contact your HR department. If the issue remains unresolved, you can file a complaint via the EPFiGMS (EPFO Grievance Management System) portal.

For employed individuals, a portion of their salary is deducted monthly as a contribution to the Provident Fund (PF)—a form of savings intended for retirement. However, the mere appearance of a deduction on your salary slip does not guarantee that the funds have been deposited with the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Therefore, it is advisable to verify your PF passbook.

Log in to the EPFO ​​member passbook portal using your UAN and password. Select the member ID associated with your current employer to view your passbook, which contains details of the monthly contributions. Since a single UAN can be linked to multiple member IDs (from various employers), ensure you check each one.

Deadline for PF Deposits

As per the regulations, an employer is required to deposit the monthly PF contribution—comprising both the employee's and the employer's shares—with the EPFO ​​by the 15th of the following month. For instance, the amount deducted from an October salary must be deposited by November 15th. (A five-day grace period that previously existed was abolished in January 2016.)

Where to File a Complaint If PF Is Not Deposited?

If the amount does not appear, inquire with your HR or payroll department to confirm whether the electronic challan-cum-return (ECR) for the relevant month has been filed and the payment made. Keep copies of your salary slip, bank statement, and PF passbook handy. If the matter is not resolved, visit the EPFiGMS portal, select the 'PF Member' option, and file a complaint after verifying your UAN. Provide details regarding the missing months and upload the necessary supporting documents. You can track the status of your complaint using the registration number provided. You may also reach out to your regional EPFO ​​office.

Action against companies for delays

Under the EPF Act, a company that makes delayed payments may be liable for interest under Section 7Q and damages under Section 14B. The EPFO ​​has the authority to recover these outstanding dues. Check your PF passbook and, when changing jobs, ensure that the records from your old and new accounts are reconciled.

Check these entries in your passbook

Do not just look at the total balance; verify these three specific entries: the 'employee contribution' (the amount deducted from your salary), the 'employer contribution' (the company's share), and the 'EPS contribution' (the amount allocated to the pension scheme). Cross-check these against your salary slips. Please note that it may take some time for your passbook to be updated.