Important EPF Update: Employees Must Get EPS Certificate When Switching Jobs

Are you moving to a new job and transferring your EPF account? If so, don’t forget to obtain an Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) certificate! Millions of employees overlook this crucial document, which can lead to a delay in receiving pension benefits. Learn what an EPS certificate (pension certificate) is, why it’s mandatory to fill out Form 10C, and the easiest online method to successfully transfer pension benefits to your next job—this information is crucial for your retirement future.

EPS Certificate

When an employee changes jobs for a better salary or opportunities, it’s mandatory to transfer the EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund) account from the previous company to the new one. However, employees should also keep in mind that they must also obtain an EPS certificate (Employees’ Pension Scheme certificate) from the EPFO ​​(Employees’ Provident Fund Organization).

The Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS), 1995, is administered by the EPFO ​​and its primary objective is to provide post-retirement pension to private sector employees. The EPS Pension Certificate serves as proof of pension service, allowing you to transfer your pension service upon changing jobs.

When is an EPS Certificate Required

EPFO members receive a pension upon reaching the age of 58 (after retirement). An EPS Certificate is issued to employees who wish to transfer their pension service period and pension amount to a new account upon changing jobs.

If your total service period is 10 years or more, pension transfer is possible only through an EPS Certificate. However, if your total service period is more than 180 days but less than 10 years, EPS fund transfer is optional, meaning it depends on your choice. If your total service period exceeds 9.5 years and you are under 50 years of age, an EPS certificate is required for pension transfer.

Form 10C

To obtain an EPS certificate, an employee must fill out Form 10C. This form combines your pension service from your previous job with your new job. The EPS certificate records your pension service from your previous job with the new job, ensuring accurate calculation of your total service period at the time of retirement.

Filling out Form 10C is mandatory whenever you change jobs, whether you transfer or withdraw EPS funds. This certificate also plays a crucial role in ensuring pension benefits to the family in the event of an employee’s sudden death.

How to Download EPS Pension Certificate Online

Applying for an EPS certificate (Form 10C) is now completely online, providing great relief to employees.

• First, you need to visit the EPFO’s official website, http://www.epfindia.gov.in.
• Select the “Online Claims Member Account Transfer” option on the right side of the home page.
• The UAN portal will open on your screen.
• Log in using your username (UAN number) and password.
• When the new page opens, select the “Online Services” option.
• In the list of services, click on the “CLAIM” link (FORM 31, 19, 10C, and 10D).
• On the next page, you need to enter your personal identification details such as name, date of birth, and Aadhaar number.
• Enter your bank account number in the blank box next to “Bank Account Number.”
• Next, click on the “Proceed for Online Claim” option.
• If you want to link the funds deposited in your pension account with your next job, click on the Scheme Certificate (FORM-10C) option.
• You’ll need to enter your full address in the box. You’ll also need to upload a document related to your PF-linked bank account, such as the first page of your passbook or checkbook.
• Finally, click the Get Aadhaar OTP option at the bottom of the page.
• Enter the OTP received on the mobile number linked to your Aadhaar card and complete the verification process.
• This will complete your application successfully. This certificate provides a strong foundation for your pension security.